Abuja court bars counsel from discussing Tinubu eligibility case on social media

A Federal High Court in Abuja has warned lawyers involved in a case challenging President Bola Tinubu’s eligibility for the 2027 presidential election not to discuss the matter in the media or on social media.

Justice Inyang Ekwo gave the warning on Tuesday while adjourning proceedings in a suit filed by former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The case seeks to disqualify Tinubu from contesting the 2027 election over allegations that he submitted a forged National Youth Service Scheme (NYSC) certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Justice Ekwo said the matter should be addressed in court rather than through public discussions.

“This case is to be conducted in court and not in the media, whether it is regular or social,” Ekwo warned.

“If this case is discussed on social media, I will hold counsel for the party responsible, and I will take very drastic action.”

The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1888/2026, was filed against Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and INEC.

At Tuesday’s hearing, Omosanya Popoola appeared in court as Tinubu’s lawyer.

However, Joseph Onu, counsel to Atiku, told the court that the plaintiffs had not yet been able to serve the President with the court documents.

Onu said his clients wanted the documents personally served on Tinubu or, alternatively, that the court should allow substituted service because of the importance of the case.

Alex Iziyon, who represented INEC, urged the court to reject the demand for personal service.

He argued that the presence of Tinubu’s lawyer in court was enough to show that the President was aware of the case.

Iziyon also asked the judge to speed up the hearing, noting that more than 17 days had passed since the case was filed.

He said INEC was prepared to submit its defence within 10 days.

Justice Ekwo, however, said he could not tell the plaintiffs how to handle their case.

The judge then adjourned the matter until September 28 for mention.