Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s judiciary, urging it to uphold democratic principles amid growing political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Atiku made the remarks in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday while reacting to a letter sent by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun. The party had called for the swift delivery of a Supreme Court judgment concerning its internal leadership dispute.
The ADC, which currently serves as a platform for a coalition of opposition figures, warned that any delay in the ruling could jeopardise its participation in the 2027 elections. In the letter dated April 28, the faction led by David Mark stressed that failure to receive a verdict within days could lead to its exclusion from the electoral process.
The party also referenced the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), noting that compliance with electoral requirements depends heavily on clarity over its leadership structure.
Reacting, Atiku raised concerns about the state of Nigeria’s democracy, alleging that it faces serious threats. However, he reaffirmed his belief in the judiciary as a stabilising institution.
“It is increasingly evident that Nigeria’s democracy, and indeed the integrity of the 2027 general elections, is in serious jeopardy,” he said. “However, I do not want to believe that the judiciary… would align with the ruling APC in any effort that could undermine our democratic foundations.”
The Supreme Court had, on April 22, reserved judgment in the case after hearing arguments from all parties. The five-member panel is led by Justice Mohammed Garba.
The appeal, filed by Senator Mark and marked SC/CV/180/2026, challenges a March 12 ruling of the Court of Appeal, which directed parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum. Mark argues that the appellate court overstepped its jurisdiction, insisting that the dispute is an internal party matter beyond judicial interference.
With the 2027 elections drawing closer, the outcome of the case is expected to play a critical role in shaping the opposition’s participation and the broader political landscape.
