Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking an order to prevent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from contesting the 2027 presidential election over an alleged discrepancy in his NYSC discharge certificate.
The plaintiffs are challenging Tinubu’s eligibility to participate in the election, claiming that the NYSC certificate submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) carries the name “Tinubu Bola Adekunle”, rather than the President’s known name, “Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
Atiku and the ADC want the court to determine whether the difference in the names on the certificate affects Tinubu’s constitutional qualification to seek another term as President in 2027.
The case also raises questions about the documents submitted by presidential candidates to INEC and whether an alleged false or disputed certificate can affect a candidate’s eligibility under Nigerian electoral laws.
The plaintiffs are asking the court to examine the circumstances surrounding the NYSC certificate and determine whether it meets the requirements for participation in the 2027 presidential election.
They are also challenging certain provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 relating to the qualifications required of candidates seeking the presidency.
The suit places Tinubu’s eligibility for the 2027 election before the Federal High Court, with the plaintiffs seeking legal clarification on the effect of the alleged certificate discrepancy.
The case comes as political activities ahead of the 2027 general election continue to intensify, with opposition parties and politicians increasingly challenging the eligibility and preparations of potential presidential contenders.