Atiku's Legal Challenge to Tinubu's 2027 Candidacy Resumes September 28

The Federal High Court in Abuja has set September 28 for the continuation of proceedings in a lawsuit initiated by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. The suit aims to disqualify President Bola Tinubu from participating in the 2027 presidential election, citing allegations of certificate forgery. The case, identified as FHC/ABJ/CS/1888/2026, was brought forward by Atiku alongside the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a co-plaintiff.

Named as defendants in the legal action are President Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). In a detailed 25-paragraph affidavit supporting the suit, Atiku alleges that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate submitted by President Tinubu to INEC, contained in Form CF0001, displays inconsistencies. Specifically, it bears the name "Tinubu Bola Adekunle," which the plaintiffs argue constitutes false information under existing electoral laws.

Consequently, the plaintiffs are seeking a judicial declaration that this submission contravenes Section 137(1)(j) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). They also request a court order to bar President Tinubu and the APC from contesting the 2027 presidential election.

During the court session on Tuesday, September 1, Omosanya Popoola, representing President Tinubu, announced his appearance. This occurred despite Joseph Onu, counsel for the plaintiffs, raising concerns about the difficulty in personally serving court documents on the President. Popoola assured the court that his team was duly authorized to receive service on President Tinubu's behalf. Meanwhile, Dr. Alex Iziyon (SAN), counsel for INEC, urged the court to expedite the hearing of the matter. However, the plaintiffs insisted on written undertakings or specific court orders for substituted service to pre-empt any future procedural hurdles.

Presiding Judge Inyang Ekwo ruled that the court could not dictate the plaintiffs' choice of service method and subsequently adjourned the case for mention. Justice Ekwo also imposed a strict gag order, prohibiting all parties and their legal representatives from publicly debating or discussing any aspects of the ongoing litigation through news outlets or social media platforms. "This case is to be conducted in the court and not in the media, whether it is regular or social," Justice Ekwo sternly warned. He added, "If this case is discussed on social media, I will hold counsel for the party responsible, and I will take very drastic action."