2027 Elections Must Be Decided on the election ground and not in court - Atiku

 

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar emphasized the necessity for Nigeria's 2027 general elections to be determined at the ballot box rather than in courtrooms. His statement follows the Court of Appeal's recent decision that reinstated the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other political parties, which had faced potential disqualification.

Atiku expressed his gratitude to the Justices of the Court of Appeal for their courageous ruling, which he believes bolsters public trust in the judiciary and upholds constitutional democracy. “Political contests must be decided by the votes of Nigerians—not by contrived lawsuits,” he stated.

The appellate court's ruling effectively clears the legal hurdles that had obstructed the ADC's leadership, allowing the party to prepare for the upcoming elections without ongoing litigation. This decision aligns with a prior judgment by Justice Liman of the Federal High Court, affirming the legitimacy of the Senator David Mark-led ADC leadership.

The Court of Appeal ruled that a previous judgment from June 15 was null and void, as it had been issued in violation of an existing appellate order. The court also determined that the plaintiffs lacked the standing to pursue the case, labeling their claims as speculative and unfounded.

Moreover, the appellate court clarified the interpretation of Section 225A of the Constitution, asserting that the suit was premature since the Osun and Ekiti election cycles were still active when the action was initiated. Atiku pointed out that the lower court had improperly disregarded unchallenged evidence from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which confirmed that the ADC and other parties had met all necessary legal requirements.

“This ruling extends beyond the fortunes of a single political party; it embodies a victory for constitutional democracy and the rule of law,” Atiku remarked. He underscored the importance of allowing citizens to choose their leaders freely through the electoral process.

Atiku warned against the misuse of the judiciary and state institutions for political manipulation, cautioning that such actions could undermine public confidence in democratic frameworks and destabilize the constitutional order. “The judiciary must not become a battleground for political elimination or the contraction of democratic space,” he cautioned.

In conclusion, Atiku thanked the Justices of the Court of Appeal for their impartial and constitutionally grounded decision, which he asserts has reaffirmed the supremacy of the rule of law over political convenience. He reiterated that a healthy democracy thrives on the inclusion of diverse political perspectives, allowing the electorate to make informed choices.