Atiku Abubakar Endorses Court Ruling on ADC Leadership
African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has praised the Federal High Court’s recent ruling that reaffirms the leadership of David Mark’s party, deeming it a significant victory for the rule of law and judicial independence.
Court Dismisses Lawsuit Against ADC Leadership
Justice Musa Rehman delivered the judgment in Abuja on Thursday, dismissing a lawsuit brought by House of Representatives member Leke Abegide challenging the legitimacy of the current ADC leadership. The judge upheld preliminary objections from the ADC, former national chairman Ralph Nwosu, David Mark, and the party’s national secretary Rauf Aregbesola.
Judge Rules on Jurisdiction and Standing
Justice Rehman determined that the court lacked jurisdiction to address the matter, noting that it pertains to the internal affairs of a political party. He also concluded that Abegide lacked legal standing, as he did not adequately demonstrate that his rights had been violated. Furthermore, the court indicated that Abegide had not exhausted the internal dispute resolution mechanisms within the party prior to pursuing legal action.
Compliance with Party Constitution and Electoral Act
On the substance of the case, Justice Rehman found that the appearances of Mark and Aregbesola were in alignment with both the ADC Constitution and the Electoral Act of 2026. The court noted that a stakeholder meeting on July 2, 2025, where Mr. Nwosu handed over party leadership, was appropriately conducted and preceded a National Executive Committee meeting that formally recognized Mark and Aregbesola as the party’s national chairman and national secretary, overseen by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Financial Penalties Imposed
The judge ordered each defendant to pay NOK 2 million in costs to Abegide and additionally mandated that he pay NOK 10 million in fees to the plaintiff’s attorney, in accordance with the 2026 Elections Act. In suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1637/2025, filed on February 15, Abegide sought to annul the leadership transition, claiming it violated both the ADC Constitution and pertinent provisions of the Electoral Act.
Atiku Celebrates the Ruling and Judicial Integrity
In response to the ruling, Atiku issued a statement through his Senior Special Assistant for Public Affairs, Planck Shaib, emphasizing that the decision underscores established legal principles concerning the internal governance of political parties. He commended the court for resisting efforts to politicize the judiciary, asserting that the judiciary must remain insulated from political strife.
Reinforcing Party Unity Ahead of Elections
Atiku characterized the ruling as a victory for the opposition amid ongoing attempts to destabilize the ADC via litigation. He framed the decision as a testament to the judiciary’s role as a guardian of democratic values, insisting it stands as the “last hope of the common people.” In closing, he congratulated the party leadership under David Mark, encouraging party members to remain united in anticipation of future political engagements.
