INEC Explains Delay in Processing Court Ruling Affecting Atiku’s Presidential Ticket

According to a report by The Punch on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared that it will not take immediate action on the landmark Federal High Court judgment that nullified the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) until it officially secures a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the ruling.

Speaking during a high-profile webinar organized by the PUNCH Media Foundation, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, clarified the electoral body’s stance on the brewing political storm that has temporarily halted former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar’s 2027 presidential trajectory.

On November 5, Justice Peter Lifu delivered a crushing blow to the Senator David Mark-led faction of the ADC, ruling that the leadership structure—and all decisions made under it, including Atiku’s nomination—were invalid.

The judgment followed a fierce legal challenge mounted by former Deputy National Chairman Nafiu Bala, who successfully proved that a resignation letter used to oust him was forged.

While the ADC has rejected the verdict, filed an appeal, and sought a stay of execution, INEC maintains that its hands are tied until paperwork is formally delivered.

Haruna explained that the Commission’s legal department is working through court registers to secure the judgment.

“We can’t rush the courts, but we do our own part. As soon as judgments like this come, the legal department goes to the court register to obtain it,” Haruna stated.

Once acquired, the document will undergo a structured internal review. A litigation department will analyze the text, a committee chaired by a national commissioner will draft strategic recommendations, and the full Commission will ultimately vote on the next course of action.

The electoral umpire’s cautious approach highlights the complex legal minefield surrounding party politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.

With the Mark-led faction fighting tooth and nail to overturn the verdict and urging INEC to freeze any consequential actions, the commission’s final decision—once the CTC is reviewed—will play a defining role in shaping the political landscape and determining the legitimacy of the opposition’s presidential ambitions.

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