Oserheimen Osunbor, the National Legal Adviser of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former Governor of Edo State, has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of being apprehensive about the upcoming January 2027 presidential election. Speaking during a segment on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Osunbor stated that the APC fears the emergence of a strong contender against President Bola Tinubu.
According to Osunbor, despite a recent court judgment that nullified Atiku Abubakar’s candidacy, the ADC is continuing its campaign. He articulated the party’s belief that the ruling would not withstand an appeal. Osunbor mentioned, “Our presidential candidate (Atiku Abubakar) and the presidential campaign is going on, unperturbed because we believe that this judgment will not stand and cannot stand.”
Moreover, he assured supporters that the ADC plans to challenge the ruling in a higher court. Osunbor expressed optimism regarding Atiku’s support among the populace, stating, “Atiku will survive because the people are behind him. The force of the people will be greater than the force of those who want to enslave Nigerians.”
The court decision, delivered by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja, resulted in the removal of the David Mark-led ADC leadership and invalidated actions taken under this leadership, including the nomination process that selected Atiku as the party’s presidential candidate. This judgment arose from a suit filed by Nafiu Bala Gombe, a former National Deputy Chairman of the party, who contested the legitimacy of the Mark-led administration.
In response to the ruling, the ADC has indicated that it will pursue an appeal and remains resolute in its campaign efforts.
