The Federal High Court in Abuja has directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and all parties involved in the dispute over the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidacy for the Jos North North Constituency seat in the Plateau State House of Assembly to maintain the status quo pending resolution of the case.


Justice Salim Olasupo Ibrahim, ruling on an ex parte application, restrained Abdulkadir Hassan from presenting himself as the APC candidate or taking any further steps regarding the contested nomination until the substantive suit is determined.


The case, filed by Adamu Aliyu against the APC, Hassan, and INEC, is marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1618/2026. The court ordered all parties to preserve the existing situation, stating: “All parties in this suit shall maintain the status quo ante bellum pending the final determination of the substantive suit.”


Aliyu had asked the court to stop INEC from recognising or publishing Hassan’s name as the APC candidate, and to prevent Hassan from parading himself or campaigning until the matter is heard.


After reviewing a 53-paragraph affidavit, supporting exhibits, and arguments presented by Aliyu’s counsel, M.B. Abdullahi, Justice Ibrahim granted the alternative relief sought and fixed August 24, 2026 for hearing of the substantive suit.


The ruling effectively pauses all activities related to the APC candidacy for the Jos North North seat until the court delivers a final judgment.