Gombe 2027: Ali JC was listed before court nullified APC primary

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that Ali Isa JC was listed as a candidate for the 2027 National Assembly elections before a Federal High Court in Gombe nullified the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary that produced him as its candidate for Billiri/Balanga Federal Constituency.

INEC published its final list of National Assembly candidates on September 12, 2026, while the court subsequently nullified the disputed primary, raising questions about the implications of the judgment for the APC’s representation in the constituency.

On Wednesday, September 30, 2026, Justice Vera E. Ibrahim of the Federal High Court, Gombe, nullified the May 16, 2026, APC primary following a suit filed by another aspirant, Alfred John.

The plaintiff challenged Ali JC’s eligibility to participate in the primary, arguing that he joined the APC only 16 days before the exercise and was not listed in the party’s membership register submitted to INEC within the statutory timeframe.

The court held that Ali JC’s participation in the primary was invalid, unlawful and null and void, citing non-compliance with the applicable provisions of the Electoral Act.

It ordered the APC to conduct a fresh primary within 30 days, barred Ali JC from participating in the rerun and directed the withdrawal of his Certificate of Return. However, the court did not declare Alfred John the winner of the party’s ticket.

Ali JC’s appearance on INEC’s list predates the judgment and does not, by itself, establish that the commission has disregarded the court’s orders.

The status of his candidacy now depends on the legal and administrative steps taken following the ruling, including whether the APC or Ali JC has appealed the decision or obtained any subsequent court order affecting its implementation.

The development places the spotlight on the process for resolving disputed party nominations and updating candidates’ lists following judicial decisions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

INEC’s position on the status of the nomination, alongside confirmation of any appeal or subsequent court order, would help clarify the implications of the judgment for the Billiri/Balanga Federal Constituency.