Gombe Court Disqualifies APC Candidate Ali J.C. in 2026

On September 30, 2026, Justice Vera E. Ibrahim delivered a judgment nullifying the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for the Balangailliri Federal Constituency, disqualifying Ali J.C. from contesting.

The court found that Ali J.C., a former Minority Whip of the House of Representatives, participated in the primary election unlawfully, as his name was not included in the party's membership register submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at least 21 days prior to the primary, violating Section 77 of the Electoral Act 2026. The plaintiff, Hon. John Alfred, challenged the validity of the primary election, asserting that Ali J.C. joined the party only 16 days before the election.

Justice Ibrahim ruled that the primary election lacked strict compliance with statutory requirements, rendering it invalid. The court ordered the APC to conduct a fresh primary election within 30 days and withdraw Ali J.C.'s Certificate of Return.

Counsel to the plaintiff, Ibrahim Aliyu, described the ruling as a victory for internal democracy.