INEC Awaits Court Judgment on Atiku's Candidacy

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has clarified that it has not received the Federal High Court judgment nullifying the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the nomination of its candidates, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar. Despite reports circulating on social media that INEC had removed Atiku and his running mate, Rotimi Amaechi, from its portal, a check on the portal showed that both names were still listed.

INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of its Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, stated that the commission had neither received the judgment nor discussed the matter. He explained that obtaining a Certified True Copy of a court judgment takes time, and the commission could not act on a decision it had not officially received. Haruna emphasized that INEC's position remained guided by the existing judicial process.

The Federal High Court in Abuja had ruled that the process through which the ADC leadership emerged failed to meet the requirements for democratic elections under relevant provisions of the Electoral Act. Consequently, the court nullified the actions taken by the disputed leadership, including the nomination of Atiku as the party's presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections. The ruling followed a suit filed by Nafiu Bala Gombe, a former ADC Deputy National Chairman, North-East.

The ADC and Atiku have rejected the judgment, describing it as legally indefensible and vowing to challenge the decision in court. Atiku insisted that his presidential campaign would continue, despite the court's ruling. The party and its presidential candidate are yet to take further action, but their rejection of the judgment indicates a possible appeal.

INEC's clarification on the matter has helped to alleviate concerns about the potential impact on the electoral process. The commission's emphasis on awaiting the Certified True Copy of the judgment and following the existing judicial process has maintained stability in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections. Voters and stakeholders will be watching closely as the situation unfolds.

The court's ruling has significant implications for the ADC and its candidates, particularly Atiku, who had been campaigning for the presidency. The party's leadership and internal dynamics may also be affected by the judgment, which could lead to further changes in the party's structure and candidate lineup. The ADC's decision to challenge the ruling may lead to a prolonged legal battle.

Key stakeholders, including political analysts and civil society groups, are monitoring the situation closely, as it may have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria's electoral process. The INEC's handling of the situation will be crucial in maintaining public trust and ensuring that the electoral process remains transparent and fair.

Key points

• INEC has not received the court judgment nullifying Atiku Abubakar's candidacy.
• The ADC and Atiku have rejected the judgment and plan to challenge it in court.
• The court's ruling may have significant implications for the ADC and its candidates.