By Ghazali Ibrahim
A Federal High Court in Abuja has issued orders restraining former Senate President David Mark and ex-Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola from interfering with the leadership structure of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in a fresh twist to the party’s ongoing crisis.
The court ruling, delivered by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, on Wednesday, also barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising congresses conducted by the disputed leadership faction within the party.
The development follows a protracted leadership tussle within the ADC, with rival factions laying claim to the party’s national structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In its decision, the court effectively upheld the authority of previously elected state executives, while restraining the Mark-led leadership from taking actions that could alter the party’s structure pending the final determination of the suit.
The case, filed by aggrieved party members, challenges the legitimacy of recent congresses and leadership arrangements involving key figures in the opposition coalition.
The ruling comes amid heightened political tension, as the ADC—seen as a major platform for opposition realignment grapples with internal divisions that could affect its preparedness for the next election cycle.
Despite the court order, Mark had earlier expressed confidence that the party would overcome its legal challenges and remain on the ballot for the 2027 elections.
However, fingers are crossed for Mark-led faction as supreme court will give a decisive ruling in the leadership crisis after a prolonged nine days.
Legal observers say the matter may ultimately be decided by the Supreme Court, which is expected to deliver a final verdict on the leadership dispute.
The latest court action underscores the uncertainty within the ADC and raises fresh questions about the stability of opposition coalition efforts ahead of 2027.
