APC Writes Court Registrar, Kick Against Substituted Service for Tinubu Over Eligibility Suit
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The All Progressives Congress (APC) has kicked an order of the Federal High court granted to the Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has disputed the Federal High Court's decision granting permission to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Atiku Abubakar, to serve court documents on President Bola Tinubu through the party's national secretariat. In a letter dated September 22, 2026, the ruling party addressed the Deputy Chief Registrar of the Federal High Court in a case presided over by Justice I.E. Ekwo.
The ex parte application for substituted service was labeled as unnecessary and misleading. In the suit (FHC/ABJ/CS/1888/2026), Atiku and his co-plaintiff filed an action against President Tinubu, the APC, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The APC's National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, revealed that Tinubu's legal team had already submitted their defense to Atiku's counsel before the court order was moved.
Basiru cautioned the court against using its processes for media propaganda and public harassment. When the matter was listed on September 1, 2026, Tinubu's counsel, Mr. Omosanya Popoola, expressed readiness to accept service of court processes on his behalf. However, Atiku's legal counsel objected to the request. The APC's legal team submitted a Preliminary Objection and comprehensive defense alongside a written address on September 15.
The party expressed concern that despite these steps, Atiku's counsel moved the ex parte application for substituted service on September 16, 2026, without disclosing that Tinubu had already served his defense.
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