Atiku Rejects Court Ruling Nullifying ADC Candidacy, Says ‘National Movement’ Cannot Be Stopped

Atiku Abukakar

By Frontline Reporters

Former Vice-President describes judgment as an attempt to derail his presidential ambition, insists his support base cuts across the country
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has rejected Thursday’s Federal High Court judgment nullifying his candidacy for the 2027 presidential election on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing it as an attempt to derail a growing national movement for political change.
Atiku also condemned the ruling, which removed the Senator David Mark-led leadership of the party and invalidated all actions taken by the executives, including the processes that produced him as the ADC’s presidential candidate.
In a statement issued by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, Atiku questioned the timing of the judgment, noting that it came barely 24 hours after thousands of supporters trooped out in Sokoto to welcome him and participate in the launch of the party’s presidential campaign.
According to him, the massive turnout in Sokoto reflected Nigerians’ growing desire for change and their confidence in his promise to make life more affordable.
“The people of Sokoto came out in their thousands because they are hungry for change and believe in our promise to make life affordable again. What we witnessed in Sokoto is only the beginning. The people of Kebbi will have their say, and so will Nigerians across the country as our campaign moves forward,” he said.
The former Vice-President also dismissed suggestions that his political appeal was largely restricted to Northern Nigeria, insisting that his candidacy enjoys support across regional and ethnic divides.
He maintained that the movement behind his presidential ambition was national in character and would continue to gain momentum despite the legal and political challenges confronting the party.
Atiku’s reaction comes amid fresh uncertainty over the ADC’s leadership and its preparations for the 2027 general election following the court’s decision.

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