The Supreme Court of Nigeria has refused to recognize any faction in the ongoing leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), directing all parties to return to the lower court for the continuation of proceedings.
In its ruling delivered on Thursday, the apex court vacated the order of status quo ante bellum, effectively removing any temporary advantage previously claimed by either faction. The court made it clear that it would not be drawn into the political dispute at this stage, instead insisting that the trial court determine the legitimate leadership of the party.
The dispute involves rival groups, including one linked to former Senate President David Mark, and another aligned with different party stakeholders. The Supreme Court emphasized that its decision does not confer legitimacy on any faction, nor does it direct the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognize any leadership bloc.
Meanwhile, attention has also turned to an earlier ruling by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, which upheld the authority of existing state party executives. The court ruled that their tenure remains valid and protected under the party’s constitution, and declared attempts to set up alternative congress committees as unconstitutional.
Justice Abdulmalik further issued a perpetual injunction restraining certain defendants and their associates from organizing state congresses or convening a national convention—actions seen as central to the leadership tussle.
Reacting to the developments, Dumebi Kachikwu described the Supreme Court’s stance as a refusal to be used as an instrument of destabilization. He maintained that neither of the contending factions holds a legitimate claim to the party’s leadership and cautioned stakeholders against aligning with any group pending final judicial determination.
The ADC crisis, which has intensified ahead of the 2027 elections, remains unresolved as legal battles continue. Political observers say the Supreme Court’s decision effectively resets the contest, placing the burden of proof squarely on the parties at the trial court level.
