Proceedings in former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s suit challenging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s eligibility for the 2027 presidential election stalled on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, over the service of court papers.
At the Federal High Court in Abuja, Atiku’s counsel, Joseph Onu, told Justice Inyang Ekwo that the originating summons had yet to be personally served on the President.
Although Tinubu’s lawyer offered to receive the process, Onu insisted on personal service or court-approved substituted service.
The suit, filed by Atiku and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), questions Tinubu’s qualification to seek another term, citing an alleged discrepancy in an NYSC discharge certificate submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
READ ALSO: Atiku: Tinubu Is 90 Years, I Have Evidence To Present In Court
The plaintiffs contend that the certificate bears the name “Tinubu Bola Adekunle” rather than “Bola Ahmed Tinubu” and want the court to determine whether the alleged discrepancy affects his constitutional eligibility.
Justice Ekwo adjourned the matter until September 28, 2026, for further mention.
The substantive issues are yet to be heard, and the allegations remain unproven claims before the court.
The case adds a fresh legal dimension to the rivalry between Tinubu and Atiku, who faced off in the February 25, 2023, presidential election won by Tinubu.
Both are now preparing for another contest in 2027, with Tinubu seeking re-election on the APC platform and Atiku flying the ADC flag.