Appeal Court Delivers Split Judgment Against David Mark's ADC Faction
The Court of Appeal in Abuja has delivered a significant blow to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) faction led by former Senate President David Mark, restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising or participating in state congresses organised by the caretaker committee. The ruling, delivered on Monday, is a major setback for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who is the ADC's presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.
In a two-to-one split decision, the three-member panel of the Court of Appeal upheld the earlier judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which had ruled against the Mark-led leadership in April. Justice Okon Abang, who delivered the lead judgment, affirmed that the caretaker committee's actions were invalid, thereby barring INEC from dealing with that faction.
Atiku's Political Ambitions Hit by Legal Hurdle
The ruling adds to the growing political challenges facing Atiku Abubakar, who is seeking to contest the 2027 presidential election under the ADC banner. The party has been embroiled in a protracted leadership crisis, with the David Mark-led faction and another group loyal to former Governor of Ondo State, Olusegun Mimiko, locked in a legal battle over the party's structure.
According to court documents, the Appeal Court's decision effectively nullifies any congresses or activities conducted by the Mark-led committee, which could delay the party's preparations for the 2027 elections. Political analysts say this could weaken Atiku's campaign infrastructure and give an advantage to other contenders.
Details of the Court Ruling
The Court of Appeal panel, in its majority judgment, agreed with the Federal High Court that the Mark-led caretaker committee was not lawfully constituted. Justice Abang stated that the committee's formation violated the ADC's constitution and relevant electoral laws. The dissenting judge, however, argued that the lower court had erred in its interpretation.
INEC has been directed to recognise only the faction of the ADC that is led by the party's national chairman, who is recognised by the court. This means the electoral body must not accept any nominations or candidates from the Mark-led faction until the legal dispute is finally resolved.
Reacting to the judgment, a spokesperson for the Mark-led faction said they would appeal the decision to the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, the ADC national chairman, Chief Okey Nwosu, welcomed the ruling, calling it a victory for democracy and the rule of law.
Implications for the 2027 Elections
The ADC crisis has been a major distraction for Atiku Abubakar, who joined the party after defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The party's inability to resolve its internal conflicts could affect its ability to field candidates for various positions, including the presidency.
Political observers note that the Court of Appeal's decision may force the ADC to reorganise its leadership and hold fresh congresses under court supervision. This could take months, leaving little time for electioneering ahead of the 2027 polls.
Atiku's campaign team has not issued an official statement on the ruling, but sources close to the former vice president say he remains committed to the ADC and is confident that the party will overcome its challenges.
