ADC Leadership Crisis: Supreme Court Reserves Judgment
The Supreme Court of Nigeria has once again reserved judgment in the protracted leadership crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a dispute widely seen as pivotal to the party’s stability ahead of the 2027 general elections. The decision followed arguments presented by rival factions within the party, one aligned with former Senate President David […]

The Supreme Court of Nigeria has once again reserved judgment in the protracted leadership crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a dispute widely seen as pivotal to the party’s stability ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The decision followed arguments presented by rival factions within the party, one aligned with former Senate President David Mark, and the other led by Nafiu Bala Gombe, each laying claim to the party’s legitimate leadership structure.
At the heart of the legal battle are critical constitutional questions, particularly whether the courts possess the jurisdiction to intervene in internal party affairs.
Addressing journalists after proceedings, the ADC Legal Adviser emphasized that the appeal raises fundamental issues that could redefine the extent of judicial involvement in party administration.
The case forms part of a broader effort by the apex court to expedite the resolution of intra-party disputes, in line with timelines set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), especially as political activities gradually build toward the next general elections.
Meanwhile, the crisis continues to deepen internal divisions within the ADC. A planned national convention by the Bala-led faction in Abuja recently failed to hold, reportedly due to the absence of delegates and key party officials, further highlighting the extent of disunity within the ranks.
Despite the challenges, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, has reaffirmed the ADC’s commitment to resolving the crisis through lawful and institutional means, expressing confidence in the judicial process.
Reacting to the situation, a senatorial aspirant under the party’s platform in Anambra State, Chidi Okoye, described the crisis as unfortunate but not without opportunity. According to him, the situation presents a chance for the party to rebuild, strengthen its internal structures, and reposition itself for future electoral contests.
The Supreme Court is expected to deliver its judgment at a later date. The ruling is anticipated to have far-reaching implications for the ADC’s leadership configuration and its preparedness for the 2027 general elections.
Ubong Usoro was there for Nigeria Magazine



