BREAKING: Judge Clamps Down on Media Trial as Atiku’s NYSC Certificate Suit Against Tinubu Deepens
Court warns lawyers over public comments as 2027 presidential eligibility battle moves into critical phase
ABUJA — The Federal High Court in Abuja has drawn a firm line against the use of the media to litigate a politically sensitive case seeking to disqualify President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from contesting the 2027 presidential election.
Justice Inyang Ekwo issued the warning on Tuesday while adjourning further proceedings in a suit filed by former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) challenging President Tinubu’s eligibility.
The suit is centred, among other issues, on allegations concerning the authenticity of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate attributed to the President.
Justice Ekwo cautioned lawyers involved in the proceedings against discussing the substance of the case in the media, signalling the court’s determination to ensure that arguments are presented before the appropriate judicial forum rather than through public commentary.
The judge’s intervention comes against the backdrop of growing political tension surrounding the 2027 presidential contest, in which legal challenges over candidates’ qualifications and eligibility are increasingly becoming part of the broader political struggle.
The dispute over the NYSC certificate is particularly sensitive because it touches directly on questions of documentation and eligibility—issues that can carry significant constitutional and electoral consequences if established before a competent court.
However, the allegations remain contested and are yet to be finally determined by the court. The latest warning therefore places the focus squarely on the judicial process and the evidence that will ultimately be presented before the court.
Atiku, who was the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election, has emerged as a prominent figure in the opposition efforts ahead of 2027. His participation in the ADC and the ongoing legal challenge against Tinubu add another dimension to an increasingly consequential political realignment ahead of the next presidential election.
The court’s decision to restrict media commentary also raises the stakes for all parties involved, as statements made outside the courtroom could potentially complicate proceedings or create the impression that the case is being decided in the court of public opinion.
For now, the substantive battle remains before Justice Ekwo, where the claims, counterclaims and supporting evidence will have to withstand judicial scrutiny.
The next stage of the proceedings is expected to provide further clarity on the legal arguments being advanced by the plaintiffs and the defence.
With the 2027 presidential contest already generating intense political manoeuvring, the case is one of several legal and political battles likely to shape the contest long before Nigerians head to the polls.
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