By our Reporter
A leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) took a legal turn on Tuesday after a Federal High Court in Abuja ordered all parties to maintain the status quo pending the hearing of a suit challenging the party’s internal structures.
The suit, filed by Don Norman Obinna and six others on behalf of state chairmen and state executive committees of the party, questions the legality of a caretaker or interim national working committee currently exercising authority within the ADC.
The defendants in the case include the party, former Senate President David Mark, Patricia Akwashiki, Bolaji Abdullahi, Rauf Aregbesola, Oserheimen Osunbor, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Ruling on an application for adjournment, Justice J.O. Abdulmalik directed all parties to preserve the existing state of affairs and refrain from taking steps that could undermine the court’s proceedings.
The judge also ordered parties to file all necessary processes and adjourned the case to April 23 for definite hearing.
Dispute over party control
At the centre of the dispute is the plaintiffs’ claim that their tenure as duly elected state executive committees remains valid under the party’s constitution and the Nigerian Constitution.
They argue that only recognised state executive committees have the authority to organise state congresses; key exercises that determine party leadership structures.
The plaintiffs further contend that the caretaker or interim national working committee lacks the legal backing to appoint congress committees or conduct congresses, describing such actions as unconstitutional and liable to be nullified.
They are also asking the court to restrain INEC from recognising or participating in any congress organised by the disputed body.
2027 calculations
Although framed as an internal party dispute, the case underscores early manoeuvres ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Control of party structures—especially at the state level—remains a critical factor in determining delegate composition, candidate selection and the broader strategic direction of political parties.
In recent months, smaller parties like the ADC have attracted renewed attention amid talks of possible coalitions and opposition realignments. Analysts say this has heightened internal contestations as various blocs seek to consolidate influence.
The outcome of the case could therefore shape not only the leadership architecture of the ADC but also its role in any emerging political alliances ahead of 2027.
What next
With the court ordering all parties to maintain the status quo, any planned congresses or structural changes within the party are effectively on hold pending judicial determination.
The next hearing, scheduled for April 23, is expected to provide further clarity on the legal questions surrounding the legitimacy of the party’s current leadership arrangements.
