Appeal Court Ruling Throws ADC Leadership Crisis into Fresh Uncertainty

Appeal Court Ruling Throws ADC Leadership Crisis into Fresh Uncertainty

By CAVIMAGES Media 

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The leadership crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has taken a fresh twist after the Court of Appeal upheld an earlier order restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising congresses conducted by committees set up by the Senator David Mark-led leadership of the party.


In a split 2-1 judgment delivered in Abuja, the appellate court affirmed the decision of the Federal High Court, ruling that elected state executive committees—not committees appointed by the national leadership—have the constitutional authority to organise state congresses.


Justice Okon Abang, who delivered the lead judgment, held that there was no reason to overturn the lower court's ruling, insisting that the tenure of elected state executives remains valid until properly conducted congresses are held.


However, the chairman of the panel, Justice Hamma Barka, dissented, arguing that the matter concerned the internal affairs of a political party and should not have been entertained by the courts.


Political observers believe the judgment could have significant implications for the party's preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections, especially for aspirants who emerged through processes organised by the disputed leadership.


The legal battle originated after party members challenged the appointment of committees to conduct state congresses, arguing that such powers are reserved for constitutionally elected organs of the party.


The latest judgment is expected to deepen conversations about internal democracy within Nigerian political parties.


Should Nigerian courts continue to intervene in political party leadership disputes, or should parties be left to resolve their internal crises? Tell us what you think.


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