The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has voiced its discontent regarding the delayed release of a judgment by Justice Peter Lifu, claiming the timing compromises its ability to respond effectively. The judgment was made available on the last day of the seven-day period dictated by the Constitution, leaving the party with limited time to plan its next legal moves.
In addition, the ADC has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Kaduna State Government of obstructing its political activities. This allegation stems from the sealing of Arewa House, which was intended to serve as the venue for a scheduled meeting of presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar with Northern stakeholders.
According to a statement from Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication for the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, the party intends to scrutinize the ruling and explore all legal options available. The ADC referenced Section 294(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates that courts provide authenticated copies of their decisions within a week of delivery.
The ADC also expressed concern over what it perceives as a systematic effort to disrupt its political undertakings. Atiku Abubakar remarked on the situation, stating: “My campaign team had proposed the Arewa House as the venue for our consultation with stakeholders on Thursday, and today, the APC government decided to seal the building.”
Furthermore, the ADC recalled a previous incident in Sokoto where the APC-led government attempted to hinder its campaign flag-off, which eventually proceeded due to the determination of its supporters. The party holds President Bola Tinubu and the APC accountable for what it describes as ongoing obstructions, urging respect for democratic processes and the opposition’s right to engage with voters.
The ADC affirmed its commitment to continue its campaign activities despite the obstacles, expressing gratitude for the support from the public. The party aims to carry its message of a new direction to the electorate.
