The Federal High Court 2 in Gombe has nullified the election of Bashir Abdullahi Gaddafi as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for Akko federal constituency in the 2027 general elections.

The court, presided over by Justice Vera E. Ibrahim, ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a fresh primary election for the constituency within 21 days.

It also directed that Gaddafi’s certificate of return be withdrawn with immediate effect.

The ruling followed a suit filed by Adamu Hassan Kashere, who challenged Gaddafi’s emergence as the ADC candidate, alleging that no primary election was conducted across the wards in Akko federal constituency.

The plaintiff also challenged Gaddafi’s eligibility, alleging that he was a public servant who contested the party primary without officially leaving his employment.

In its judgement, however, the court held that the plaintiff failed to establish the allegation that Gaddafi continued to receive salaries while contesting the election.

The court also acknowledged that Gaddafi was a registered member of the ADC and was eligible to contest in the party’s primary election.

During the proceedings, the plaintiff sought to tender documents in support of his allegations, but there was a dispute over the admission of the relevant documents.

Kashere had instituted the suit against Gaddafi, the ADC and INEC, challenging the process that produced Gaddafi as the party’s candidate for the House of Representatives seat.

Reacting to the judgement, counsels to the plaintiff and the defendants, Ibrahim Aliyu Nasarawa and Benjamin Sati respectively, said they would consult their clients before deciding on their next step. (Daily Trust)