With the 2027 elections approaching, court disputes are putting several opposition parties’ plans—and some of their candidates’ places on the ballot—in doubt.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) faces the biggest immediate test. A Federal High Court ruling reportedly voided the leadership of the party under David Mark and decisions made by that leadership, including the primary that selected Atiku Abubakar as its presidential candidate. The party says it will appeal, but Atiku supporters say they need the court’s written judgment before they can proceed. They have protested and petitioned judicial and international institutions, calling for its release.
Other parties are also dealing with unresolved disputes. Rival factions in the Peoples Democratic Party are contesting who has authority to lead it.
The Labour Party’s leadership struggle has produced a court ruling recognizing Nenadi Usman’s caretaker committee. Accord is facing challenges over both its presidential ticket and the process used to submit candidates’ names to INEC.
The timing is adding pressure. The Federal High Court has scheduled its Christmas break from December 21, 2026, to January 5, 2027, just weeks before the election. Designated vacation judges are expected to hear urgent cases, including pre-election disputes.
The report also says the NNPP’s presidential candidate was left off INEC’s final list, while a Supreme Court decision has settled the SDP’s leadership dispute.
For parties still fighting over leaders, primaries or candidate lists, the legal clock is ticking alongside the electoral one.
