ADC Challenges INEC Decision in Federal High Court
The leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), under David Mark, has filed a petition with the Federal High Court in Abuja to contest the Independent Electoral Commission’s (INEC) recent revocation of its recognition as the party’s governing body.
This legal move follows an Electoral Tribunal ruling on April 1, which resulted in the removal of Mark, the national chairman, and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, the national secretary, from the official INEC portal and website. This decision stemmed from a complaint lodged by APC member Mr. Nafiu Bala Gombe, who sought an injunction to prevent INEC from acknowledging the Mark-led leadership.
Justice Emeka Nwaito, however, dismissed Gombe’s request, stating that he must notify the other parties involved in the case. In response, the ADC leadership has raised concerns about the jurisdiction of the Nwaito court over internal party matters, arguing it is unwarranted.
Furthermore, the ADC claims that the court had unfairly dismissed an injunction application, which led to the premature removal of its leadership names from the INEC records. The appellate court concurred, deeming the appeal premature and instructing the trial court to expedite the substantive case.
Amidst this legal turmoil, INEC proceeded to revoke the recognition of Mark and his leadership team, prompting them to file a petition for a mandatory injunction against INEC’s actions. The ADC is seeking to restrain INEC from obstructing their congresses and conventions while the court considers the case.
In the petition filed on April 7 by Mark’s new attorney, San Raiman Usman, the ADC is requesting that INEC restore its National Working Committees (NWCs) in all official records. Usman argues that injuries suffered due to the revocation could compromise the ADC’s ability to participate in political activities effectively.
The ADC’s motion requests the court to issue an injunction that would reverse any decision made by INEC regarding the removal of its leadership. They argue this would help maintain the status quo while awaiting the final judgment. Usman emphasized that the case’s fundamental implications for the ADC’s leadership structure are critical for democratic governance.
Additionally, the ADC is seeking an expedited hearing to address the urgent nature of the ongoing situation, claiming it disrupts their internal operations and creates an institutional crisis. Usman highlighted that ongoing litigation could lead to further complications, urging the court to resolve the matter promptly.
In earlier proceedings, Justice Nwaito had denied Gombe’s request to suspend the Mark-led leadership before the substantive case was heard, instead directing him to notify all defendants of the claims. He subsequently adjourned the matter until September 15, 2025, for further arguments.
The complexity of this legal battle signals significant ramifications for the ADC and highlights the volatility present within political organizations in Nigeria, particularly regarding leadership disputes and compliance with electoral regulations.
