Lawyers representing the factional National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Nafiu Bala Gombe, have reacted to the Supreme Court's ruling on the party's leadership dispute. The legal team confirmed that the apex court did not decide the substantive issue, and the case will now return to the Federal High Court for a full hearing on its merits.
Supreme Court Dismisses Most Appeal Grounds
The Supreme Court dismissed six out of seven grounds of appeal filed by former Senate President David Mark. Only one ground was partially upheld, relating to the order on maintaining the status quo ante bellum. According to a legal analysis, the court stated that such an order could only be made when valid proceedings were pending, noting that the Court of Appeal had already declared the appeal incompetent.
Legal Team Clarifies Ruling
Counsel to the factional ADC chairman explained that the appeal failed because David Mark sought to have the Supreme Court determine whether the claim before the Federal High Court was justiciable. However, the apex court did not fully address the core issue, leaving the leadership dispute unresolved. The lawyer emphasized that the matter had not been concluded at the trial court level.
Case Returns to Federal High Court
The factional legal team confirmed that the dispute will proceed back to the Federal High Court for a hearing on its merits. A statement read: "We are going back to the Federal High Court for the case to be heard on its merits." This development suggests that the final resolution of the ADC leadership crisis may still take time as legal processes continue.
Leadership Crisis Continues
The ruling adds another layer to the ongoing leadership tussle within the ADC, which has seen multiple court battles and factional disputes ahead of the 2027 general election. Observers note that the latest decision indicates that the crisis is far from over.
Atiku Abubakar Weighs In
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has also commented on the Supreme Court verdict, outlining the next phase of political engagement. The apex court's decision was widely interpreted as backing the David Mark-led structure, providing some clarity in the dispute.
The ADC leadership crisis continues to evolve, with legal battles expected to persist as both factions seek to assert control over the party.
