The Federal High Court in Gombe has adjourned the ongoing lawsuit challenging the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for the Gombe South Senatorial District to July 22, 2026, when both parties will submit their final written arguments before judgment is delivered. The case, presided over by Justice Amina Aliyu Mohammed, stems from a legal challenge filed by Hon. Bilyaminu Babadidi, who seeks to nullify Jerry Joseph Damara’s emergence as the APC’s senatorial candidate for the district. Babadidi’s suit also names the APC, Damara, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as respondents.
During the trial, Babadidi presented four witnesses, including himself, and submitted various documents to support his claim. His witnesses testified that no APC primary election was conducted at polling units or local government levels in Gombe South. They further stated that election officials and voting materials were never deployed for the exercise, casting doubt on the legitimacy of Damara’s selection. Babadidi also revealed that he had filed a formal complaint with the APC Appeal Committee, but he claimed no action was taken on his petition, leaving him with no recourse but to approach the court.
In defense, the APC called one witness, Rabilu Musa, who identified himself as the chairman of the party’s National Primary Election Committee. Musa affirmed that the APC held its senatorial primary across Gombe State, including in Gombe South, on May 18, 2026. However, under cross-examination, he admitted that the voters’ register, a crucial document for verifying electoral processes, was not produced or tendered as evidence before the court. This omission has raised questions about the completeness and transparency of the party’s internal election process.
After both sides concluded their presentations, Justice Amina Aliyu Mohammed adjourned the case to allow time for the final written submissions. The court’s decision to delay judgment until July 22, 2026, reflects the complexity of the legal issues involved and the need for thorough consideration of all evidence. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the APC’s internal democracy and the credibility of its candidate selection process in Gombe State.
As the legal battle continues, stakeholders in Gombe South and across Nigeria are closely watching how the court will rule on the legitimacy of Damara’s candidacy. The case underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in party primaries, especially as Nigeria prepares for future elections. The final judgment may set a precedent for how political parties conduct and defend their internal electoral processes in the country.
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