By Stephen Simon
The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed November 20 to rule on an application by former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar seeking to amend his suit challenging President Bola Tinubu’s eligibility to contest the 2027 presidential election.
Justice Inyang Edem Ekwo fixed the date on Tuesday after hearing arguments from lawyers representing the parties in the dispute.
Atiku, who is associated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), is seeking permission to amend the originating summons in his suit against Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress.
The legal action concerns allegations surrounding the National Youth Service Corps discharge certificate Tinubu submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Atiku’s application seeks to introduce additional details and evidence into the existing case. The court is expected to determine whether the proposed amendments should be allowed.
The suit is part of the continuing legal and political disputes surrounding the eligibility of candidates for the 2027 presidential election.
Tinubu and the APC are the defendants in the proceedings, while the court will determine the application based on the arguments and applicable legal principles presented by the parties.
The November 20 date relates to the application to amend the suit, rather than a final determination of the underlying allegations.
The development comes as political parties and prospective candidates intensify preparations for the next general election, with legal disputes over eligibility, party nominations and electoral procedures likely to remain prominent.
The court’s decision will determine whether Atiku can proceed with the proposed amendments to his case. The allegations remain matters for judicial determination.
