Justice Peter Lifu has voided the presidential candidacy of Atiku Abubakar and actions undertaken by the Senator David Mark-led caretaker committee of the African Democratic Congress.

Mr Lifu of the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court on Thursday invalidated the leadership of Mr Mark-led committee and consequently, actions taken by it over a complaint filed by a former ADC national deputy chairman (North-East), Nafiu Bala Gombe.

Mr Gombe argued that the process that produced the leaders of the Mark-led committee was unconstitutional, for it violated the provisions of the Electoral Act.

He claimed he was entitled to assuming the party leadership following the unprecedented resignation of a former ADC national chairman, Ralph Nwosu.

He prayed the judge to nullify actions undertaken by the embattled leadership and bar Messrs Mark and Aregbesola from portraying themselves as the national chairman and national secretary.

Mr Lifu granted Mr Bala’s prayers and consequently, voided Mr Abubakar’s candidacy as he emerged the ADC presidential flag bearer under the Mark-led committee.

The ADC national welfare secretary, Nkemakolam Ukandu, has vowed to appeal the decision.

The ruling has rattled Nigerians and party members as the presidential elections arevscheduled to be held on January 16, 2027 and Mr Abubakar is the main challenger of President Bola Tinubu.

The ruling also affects the vice presidential candidacy of Mr Abubakar’s running mate and former minister of transportation, Rotimi Amaechi.