The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned a suit challenging the conduct of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections, with the matter now fixed for August 27, 2026, for the hearing of substantive applications.
The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1142/2026, was filed by Hon. Engr. Kaaba Sesugh and other candidates who alleged that the APC National Working Committee (NWC) and relevant party officials violated provisions of the Electoral Act and the APC constitution during the primary election process.
The plaintiffs, who described themselves as candidates representing the interests of ordinary Nigerians, accused the party leadership of engaging in irregularities, including alleged unlawful candidate substitution and failure to follow due process in the conduct of the primaries.
In their suit, the candidates are asking the court to restrain the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognizing or accepting the disputed candidates produced from the contested process.
They are also seeking a declaration that the APC NWC breached constitutional and statutory requirements guiding political party primaries, as well as an order nullifying the disputed exercise and directing the party to conduct a fresh and transparent process.
The matter was brought before Justice of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, July 21, 2026, where legal representatives for both sides presented arguments on preliminary objections.
Representing the APC National Working Committee were Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Matthew Burkaa, SAN, alongside Barrister Fidelis Bemsen Mnyim and other members of the legal team.
The plaintiffs were represented by Ndarani, SAN & Co., who maintained their position that the primary election process was flawed and did not comply with the requirements of the law and the party’s internal regulations.
After listening to submissions from counsel, the court adjourned the case to August 27, 2026, when the substantive applications before it are expected to be considered.
The legal battle adds to ongoing disputes surrounding internal party processes ahead of future elections, with aspirants increasingly turning to the courts to challenge decisions they believe violate electoral guidelines and democratic principles.
Political observers say the outcome of the case could have implications for the affected candidates and the APC’s handling of primary elections, particularly regarding transparency, fairness, and adherence to legal procedures.
The plaintiffs are expected to continue pursuing their claims as the court prepares to examine the main issues raised in the suit during the next hearing date.