Peter Obi criticises Atiku’s invalidation for 2027
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Punch
Peter Obi criticised the Nigerian judiciary’s invalidation of Atiku Abubakar’s candidacy for the 2027 presidential election. The leader said the decision weakened voters’ choices and created uncertainty for opposition parties, according to a statement published on his verified account.
Peter Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Congress candidate for the 2027 presidential election, criticised the Federal High Court in Abuja’s annulment of Atiku Abubakar’s designation as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate. He said he feared the decision would create uncertainty for opposition parties and reduce voters’ choice, in a message posted on Thursday on his verified X account, Punch reports.
Judge Peter Lifu also annulled the ADC leadership headed by former Senate president David Mark, as well as decisions taken under that leadership. The ruling calls into question the designation of Rauf Aregbesola as national secretary and the nominations of other ADC candidates for the 2027 elections.
Peter Obi said he did not challenge the judiciary’s power to settle disputes, but that such uncertainty, three months before the general elections, could affect the electoral process. He also accused the ruling party of using similar methods against the opposition and civic space, according to Punch.
Peter Obi’s reaction comes after the invalidation of Atiku Abubakar’s candidacy. The ADC subsequently appealed against the decision.
