The Federal High Court in Abuja has nullified the leadership structure of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by former Senate President David Mark, in a ruling that also invalidates the party’s nomination of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for the 2027 presidential election.
Justice Peter Odo Lifu delivered the judgment on Thursday, November 5, 2026, in a suit filed by Nafiu Bala Gombe, a former ADC deputy national chairman.
The court reportedly ruled that the processes through which Mark, Rauf Aregbesola and other party officials emerged as national officers were unlawful. It consequently nullified actions taken by the Mark-led leadership, including the nomination of candidates for the 2027 general elections.
Gombe had challenged the legitimacy of the leadership, arguing that its emergence violated the party’s constitution and relevant provisions of the Electoral Act. Justice Lifu upheld his case.
The ruling represents a major setback for the ADC as political parties prepare for the 2027 elections. It also casts uncertainty over Atiku’s presidential ticket and other nominations made under the disputed leadership.
The ADC has indicated that it will appeal the judgment, according to reports. The legal dispute may therefore continue as the party seeks to determine its leadership and the status of its electoral candidates.
The judgment is the latest development in a prolonged leadership crisis within the ADC, involving competing claims over the party’s national leadership and the authority to conduct its internal affairs.
