Atiku vows to appeal judgment nullifying Mark-led ADC leadership

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has vowed to appeal Thursday's Federal High Court judgment that nullified the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) under former Senate President David Mark. Atiku believes the ruling is an attempt to weaken his opposition party and damage his presidential campaign for the 2027 elections.

He questioned why the dispute was reopened after a previous Federal High Court ruling on July 2, 2026, upheld the legitimacy of the Mark-led leadership. Atiku's statement, issued by the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, cited the timing of the judgment as suspicious, coming shortly after a large rally in Sokoto State. He argued that the crowd turnout reflected Nigerians' desire for political change and support for the party's promise to address the rising cost of living.

Atiku maintained that his candidacy had a national appeal, emphasizing that economic hardship affects all regions of Nigeria. He also criticized the ruling party for underestimating his political support, which extends beyond the North. The former Vice-President noted that the ADC had rejected the latest judgment, vowing to challenge it at the Court of Appeal.