The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, has said the commission will abide by whatever final court decision determines whether former Vice President Atiku Abubakar can contest the 2027 presidential election under the African Democratic Congress. Speaking on Thursday at a dialogue at Chatham House in London, organised with the Kimpact Development Initiative under the theme "Nigeria's 2027 Elections: Democratic Trajectory and Regional Stability Beyond the Ballot," Amupitan said INEC is constitutionally obligated to obey court orders, particularly those from the Supreme Court, regardless of public reaction.
The question arose from a November 5 judgment by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, which nullified the leadership of the ADC led by former Senate President David Mark and declared the process that produced him and other national officers unlawful. The suit was brought by former ADC Deputy National Chairman Nafiu Bala Gombe, who challenged the emergence of the Mark-led leadership after the resignation of former National Chairman Ralph Nwosu and other party officials. Amupitan quoted Section 285 of the Constitution, saying he is obligated to obey every court order if Atiku ultimately fails in his challenge.S1S2
Amupitan said INEC had pushed for an accelerated hearing when the ADC leadership dispute emerged in April, arguing it should be resolved within three weeks to avoid complications for 2027 preparations. The commission complied with a court directive to suspend action pending the outcome, but the case subsequently went on appeal and is now headed to the Court of Appeal.S1S2
He lamented the growing volume of election-related litigation, saying INEC faces more than 300 pending cases with the polls about 66 days away. He disclosed that the commission has already begun procuring sensitive election materials and urged reforms requiring pre-election disputes to be resolved six months to one year before voting, so logistical arrangements can be completed. He also acknowledged that the commission risks public criticism for implementing last-minute rulings, warning that "the problem now is transferred unto you."S1S2
