ADC: Sokoto turnout prompted judgment voiding Atiku’s candidacy
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has claimed that the recent turnout at its political event in Sokoto influenced the timing of a court ruling that nullified the leadership of its David Mark-led faction and invalidated the party’s presidential candidacy.
Bolaji Abdullahi, the party’s spokesperson, made this assertion during an interview on Channels Television’s “Lunchtime Politics” while responding to the judgment. He stated that the party intends to challenge the ruling, describing it as part of ongoing efforts to hinder the ADC’s political activities.
Abdullahi accused the ruling party of attempting to maintain power and obstruct Nigerians from having a democratic choice in the upcoming 2027 elections. “We’ve spent more time in the courts than we’ve spent on the campaign grounds, thanks to the ruling party,” he remarked.
He further alleged that the judgment was expedited in response to the ADC’s recent political event in Sokoto. “I think within hours of seeing the turnout and reaction in Sokoto, they had to rush and finalize this judgment this morning,” Abdullahi claimed.
Despite the setback, the ADC spokesperson expressed confidence in the party’s capacity to appeal the ruling through the judicial system. He emphasized, “We will approach the same court. We believe in the judicial institution, regardless of some judges who may appear to be undermining democracy in Nigeria.”
Abdullahi indicated that the party plans to apply for a stay of execution and contest the judgment. He warned that if the ruling were to remain in effect, it could prevent the ADC from fielding candidates in presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and other elections.
“What is endangered is not the African Democratic Congress. What is endangered is Nigeria as a country and our democracy as we’ve known it,” he stated.
He maintained that the ADC’s message of change, affordability, and improved living conditions has garnered widespread support, urging that Nigerians be allowed to choose their preferred leaders. Abdullahi reiterated his belief that the judgment would not prevail and affirmed the party’s commitment to continue its legal challenge.
