Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has asserted that the 2027 general elections should be settled through the ballot box rather than through judicial intervention. His comments follow a Court of Appeal ruling that set aside a Federal High Court decision previously aimed at excluding the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other parties from the electoral process.
This appellate ruling clears legal hurdles for the ADC, enabling the party to concentrate on upcoming political contests instead of ongoing litigation. Atiku praised the appellate justices for their adherence to the Constitution, noting that the decision bolsters public trust in the judicial system.
The former Vice President stated that political battles should be fought by candidates seeking the support of the electorate, rather than through lawsuits designed to bypass the voting process. The court’s decision effectively confirms the leadership status of the Senator David Mark-led National Executive Committee within the ADC, establishing its legal right to participate in future elections.
The Court of Appeal found that the initial High Court ruling, delivered by Justice Lifu, was invalid because it ignored a standing appellate order. Furthermore, the court determined that the plaintiffs lacked standing, labeling their claims as speculative. By clarifying the interpretation of Section 225A of the Constitution, the court ruled that the previous legal challenge was premature.
Atiku emphasized that the judiciary must remain an impartial arbiter and should not be used as a tool for political maneuvering or eliminating opposition. He warned that weaponizing state institutions threatens the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy. Ultimately, he framed the ruling as a victory for the rule of law and competitive politics, maintaining that the strength of a nation relies on its citizens freely choosing their representatives.
