ADC Files Lawsuit Against INEC Over Leadership Recognition Dispute
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has initiated legal proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to restore the names of Senator David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as the party's National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively.
Legal Action and Court Proceedings
The lawsuit, officially marked as FHC/ABJ/CS/1819/2025, was filed following the removal of their names and other members of the National Working Committee from INEC's official portal on April 1, 2025. In a motion presented by counsel Sulaiman Usman, SAN, the plaintiff is requesting a mandatory injunction to reinstate these officials to their positions as they stood prior to the current leadership dispute.
The application specifically seeks a court order directing INEC to restore the names of Senator David Mark, Rauf Aregbesola, and other committee members to its portal. Additionally, the suit asks the court to set aside INEC's refusal to monitor the party's congresses or convention, which has further complicated the situation.
Furthermore, the legal action includes a request for an injunction preventing the commission from recognizing competing claims or tampering with leadership records pending the final determination of the matter. This precautionary measure aims to maintain stability within the party during the ongoing legal battle.
Roots of the Leadership Crisis
The legal confrontation stems from a March 12 Court of Appeal judgment regarding a leadership dispute initiated by former Deputy National Chairman, Nafiu Gombe. While the appellate court directed parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum, the interpretation of that order has led to a significant split within the party, creating two distinct factions with competing claims to leadership.
The leadership crisis has divided the ADC into two prominent camps. The David Mark camp, supported by party founder Ralph Nwosu, insists on proceeding with the national convention slated for April 14. Nwosu has publicly stated that the party has followed all legal requirements and will not allow INEC's de-recognition to derail their preparations for the 2027 elections.
Meanwhile, the Nafiu Gombe camp held a counter-protest at INEC headquarters in Abuja, demanding that Gombe be recognized as the National Chairman. Gombe has urged INEC to uphold his interpretation of the court order, accusing rival actors of attempting to hijack the party through what he describes as illegitimate means.
Broader Implications and Political Pressure
As the legal proceedings continue, the Professor Joash Amupitan-led INEC faces increasing pressure from Civil Society Organizations and party chieftains who allege that the commission's current stance undermines the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections. This situation highlights the delicate balance electoral bodies must maintain in managing internal party disputes while ensuring fair electoral processes.
The outcome of this case could have significant implications for party governance structures and INEC's role in mediating internal political conflicts. With both camps preparing for potential electoral contests, the resolution of this leadership dispute will likely influence the ADC's organizational stability and electoral prospects in the coming years.
