The Court of Appeal has ruled that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) does not currently have a legally recognised presidential candidate, a decision that has intensified the party’s ongoing leadership crisis involving former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the party’s National Chairman, Senator David Mark.
The appellate court held that decisions taken by committees constituted under the disputed leadership lacked legal validity while the internal leadership dispute remains unresolved. The court also directed that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should not recognise actions arising from the contested leadership until the legal issues are conclusively settled.
The judgment has sparked fresh debate within Nigeria’s political landscape, as it raises questions about the ADC’s readiness for future electoral activities, including the nomination of a presidential candidate.
Responding to reports on the ruling, Atiku Abubakar’s camp maintained that the judgment had been widely misinterpreted. His media team argued that the Court of Appeal did not nullify the party’s presidential primary but only addressed issues relating to the legitimacy of the party’s leadership and internal decisions.
The dispute stems from a prolonged leadership battle within the ADC, with rival factions challenging the authority of the David Mark-led National Working Committee. The legal disagreements have resulted in multiple court cases, leaving uncertainty over several decisions taken by the party.
Political analysts believe the latest ruling could significantly affect the ADC’s political plans if the leadership crisis persists. They note that resolving the internal dispute will be crucial before the party can move forward with any presidential nomination that would receive official recognition from INEC.