Atiku Heads to Supreme Court, Insists ADC Ticket Valid

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has approached the Supreme Court to challenge a recent ruling that nullified the congresses of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He insists that his presidential ticket under the party remains intact.

Atiku, who emerged as the ADC’s presidential candidate earlier this year, said the lower court’s decision on the party’s congresses does not affect his candidacy. He stressed that the ticket was validly secured and would be defended at the apex court.

The controversy stems from a Federal High Court judgment which voided the ADC congresses that produced the party’s leadership. The ruling raised questions about the legitimacy of subsequent decisions, including Atiku’s nomination.

Reacting to the development, Atiku’s legal team confirmed that an appeal has been filed at the Supreme Court. They argued that the lower court erred in its interpretation of the law and failed to consider the broader implications for party democracy.

Atiku maintained that the ADC’s internal processes were conducted in line with the party’s constitution and the Electoral Act. He said the attempt to invalidate the congresses was politically motivated and aimed at destabilising the party ahead of the 2026 general elections.

“The ADC ticket remains intact. We are confident that the Supreme Court will uphold justice and protect the democratic rights of our members,” Atiku stated.

The ADC leadership also backed Atiku’s position, describing the ruling as a setback but not a defeat. The party said it would continue to mobilise support nationwide while awaiting the Supreme Court’s verdict.

Observers note that the case could set a precedent for how internal party disputes affect candidates in national elections. Legal experts argue that the Supreme Court’s decision will clarify whether flaws in party congresses automatically invalidate subsequent nominations.

Meanwhile, Atiku has urged his supporters to remain calm and focused. He assured them that the legal challenge would not derail his campaign or his commitment to offering Nigerians an alternative political platform.

The case adds to the growing list of pre-election disputes before the courts, highlighting the tension between party autonomy and judicial oversight. Analysts believe the outcome will shape the political landscape as parties prepare for the polls.

Atiku’s move to the Supreme Court underscores his determination to contest under the ADC banner despite legal hurdles. His insistence on the validity of his ticket signals a readiness to fight to the end for his candidacy.

The Supreme Court is expected to hear the appeal in the coming weeks. Until then, Atiku remains the ADC’s presidential candidate, pending the final judgment.

This development has drawn attention across Nigeria’s political space, with stakeholders watching closely to see how the judiciary will balance legal interpretation with democratic participation.