INEC Reveals Why Atiku, Amaechi’s Names Remain on 2027 Pres Candidates’ List Despite Court Ruling

According to a report by DAILY POST published on Monday, November 9, 2026, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has explained why former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and his running mate, Chibuike Amaechi, are still listed on its official portal as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidates for the 2027 presidential election.

INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, attributed the situation to the commission’s failure to receive the Certified True Copy (CTC) of a Federal High Court judgement that nullified the leadership structure of the ADC faction led by David Mark and the process through which Atiku emerged as the party’s presidential candidate.

The development followed a ruling delivered by Justice Peter Odo Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja. The judge declared the process that produced Mark as the ADC National Chairman unlawful and also invalidated the emergence of Rauf Aregbesola as the party’s National Secretary.

Furthermore, the judgement nullified the primary election that produced Atiku as the ADC presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections. Other party candidates seeking elective positions were also affected by the decision.

The court equally directed INEC not to recognise resolutions and decisions reached during the ADC’s 99th National Executive Committee meeting held on July 27, 2025.

However, speaking during a press briefing at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Monday, Amupitan explained that INEC could not immediately implement the court’s decision without obtaining the official documentation.

He emphasised that the commission follows established legal procedures and would not make administrative changes based on information circulating on social media.

“We have not received the Certified True Copy of the ruling,” Amupitan said.

He further stated, “We do not carry out action based on what we see on social media.”

The clarification suggests that Atiku and Amaechi will remain listed on INEC’s portal until the commission receives and examines the certified court documents.

The situation places renewed attention on the ADC’s internal leadership dispute and the legal processes surrounding its preparations for the 2027 general elections. INEC’s eventual response will depend on its consideration of the official judgement and the applicable legal requirements.

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