ADC Rejects Court Ruling, Heads To Appeal

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has rejected a Federal High Court judgment that removed the Senator David Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the party, insisting that Mark and former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, remain its recognised leaders.

The ruling has sparked fresh political controversy ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the opposition party announcing plans to challenge the decision at the Court of Appeal.

Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja had ruled that the emergence of the David Mark-led leadership was unlawful and invalidated decisions taken by the committee.

The judgment also affected the party’s presidential ticket, including the nomination of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar as its candidate for the 2027 presidential election.

The decision has attracted reactions from political leaders, parties and other stakeholders, with concerns growing over its possible effect on opposition politics and the electoral process.

Atiku accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of working to weaken opposition parties through the courts, describing the development as an attempt to create difficulties for political alternatives ahead of the next general election.

However, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, welcomed the judgment, describing it as a proper application of the law.

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, also reacted to the development, calling on the judiciary to protect democracy and ensure stability in the country’s electoral system.

Obi warned against actions that could weaken democratic institutions and create uncertainty around the participation of political parties in elections.

Similarly, the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) accused the APC of using the judiciary to weaken opposition parties and push Nigeria towards a one-party system.

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) and other opposition figures also expressed concern about the ruling, warning that developments capable of reducing political competition could affect the country’s democracy.

The judgment came a day after Atiku held a campaign rally in Sokoto State, where a large crowd of supporters gathered to welcome him as he began mobilisation for the January 16, 2027 presidential election.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had earlier listed Atiku as the ADC’s presidential candidate, while the former Vice-President had selected former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, as his running mate.

However, the latest court decision has created uncertainty over the party’s leadership and its presidential ticket.

With the ADC preparing to approach the Court of Appeal, the legal battle over its leadership is expected to continue, potentially affecting its preparations for the 2027 general elections.