The political crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has taken a major turn following a Federal High Court judgment in Abuja invalidating the leadership structure headed by former Senate President David Mark.
The ruling, delivered on Thursday by Justice Peter Lifu, also affected the process through which former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar emerged as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.
In the judgment, the court nullified the emergence of Mark as National Chairman and former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, as National Secretary, alongside other appointments made under the disputed leadership.
The court also invalidated decisions taken by the Mark-led National Working Committee, including the nomination of candidates for elective positions.
Furthermore, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was directed not to recognise or act on decisions reached at the ADC’s 99th National Executive Committee meeting held on July 27, 2025.
The case originated from a legal challenge filed by former ADC Deputy National Chairman (North-East), Nafiu Bala Gombe, in suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1819/2025.
Gombe challenged the process through which Mark and other members of the caretaker leadership assumed control of the party. He maintained that following the resignation of former National Chairman Ralph Nwosu, he was constitutionally entitled to take over the leadership.
Justice Lifu upheld the case, holding that the emergence of the Mark-led leadership violated provisions of the ADC constitution, the Electoral Act and the 1999 Constitution.
Atiku Rejects Setback, Promises Appeal
Reacting to the judgment, Atiku Abubakar vowed to challenge the decision at the Court of Appeal.
The former Vice-President accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections.
Despite the legal development, Atiku maintained that his presidential ambition remained alive and reiterated his commitment to contesting the next election.
He made the remarks while attending a campaign rally in Kebbi State, where he also outlined promises to address insecurity and restore fuel subsidy if elected President.
ADC Factions Welcome and Condemn Ruling
The Nafiu Bala Gombe-led faction welcomed the judgment, describing it as a victory for constitutional order within the party.
The faction argued that the decision meant the Mark-led leadership could no longer claim authority to nominate candidates for the 2027 elections.
Meanwhile, the ruling generated reactions across the political landscape, with opposition parties and political figures expressing concerns about its potential implications for political competition and democratic participation.
However, Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo defended the court’s decision, arguing that the crisis resulted from the actions of the Mark-led faction.
With Atiku preparing to appeal, the judgment is expected to remain a major issue in the ADC’s leadership struggle and its preparations for the 2027 presidential election.
