The Court of Appeal in Abuja has affirmed a Federal High Court order restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising or participating in any state congresses organised by committees appointed by the Senator David Mark-led caretaker leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The ruling, delivered in a split two-to-one decision, marks a fresh twist in the party's ongoing leadership crisis.
The appellate court also awarded a cost of ₦10 million against the party. In the majority judgment, the court upheld the earlier restraining order, while a dissenting justice argued that the matter concerned the internal affairs of a political party and was therefore not justiciable.
Despite the setback, the ADC insisted the judgment would not affect its candidates or preparations for the 2027 general elections. Party officials maintained that the ruling relates specifically to the recognition of congresses and does not invalidate the party's presidential ticket or its broader political activities.
The judgment comes amid multiple legal disputes within the opposition party. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reportedly approached the Supreme Court, alleging that forged INEC documents were used in connection with what he described as a "fake" nomination upload, further complicating the party's internal crisis.
Political observers say the latest ruling could significantly affect the ADC's organisational activities as it seeks to consolidate its position ahead of the 2027 elections. However, the party has expressed confidence that ongoing legal processes will ultimately resolve the leadership dispute in its favour.
