Fresh legal setback deepens leadership tussle within opposition coalition-backed party ahead of 2027 elections
A fresh court order has further complicated the leadership crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress (ADC), as a Federal High Court reportedly restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising congresses conducted by the party under the leadership of former Senate President David Mark.
The ruling also bars the David Mark-led faction from parading itself as the legitimate leadership of the ADC pending the determination of the substantive suit before the court. The development marks another twist in the prolonged internal battle over control of the opposition party, which has recently become a rallying platform for several coalition figures ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The dispute followed disagreements that emerged after the resignation of former ADC National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, and the emergence of David Mark as interim national chairman. However, another faction led by Nafiu Bala challenged the arrangement in court, insisting that constitutional succession procedures within the party were violated.
INEC had earlier stated that it would no longer recognise correspondences, congresses, conventions, or activities from either faction until the courts determine the authentic leadership of the party. The commission also maintained that it would preserve the status quo pending final judicial pronouncement on the matter.
