The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a ruling that nullifies the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), led by former Senate President David Mark, and voids the presidential candidacy of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Judge Peter Lifu stated that the caretaker committee overseen by Mark, which conducted the primary election that selected Atiku as the ADC flag bearer, was illegal. As a result of this ruling, the court dismissed all national officers of the party, including National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola, and invalidated the candidacies of all individuals the ADC intended to present to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the 2027 elections.
If the judgement is upheld by higher courts, the ADC could be prevented from participating in the upcoming general elections, thus diminishing its position as a significant contender against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The lawsuit originated from a challenge posed by former ADC Deputy National Chairman for the North-East, Nafiu Bala Gombe. The court’s decision also directed INEC not to recognize the outcomes from the party’s 99th National Executive Committee meeting held on July 27, 2025.
This ruling may face appeals up to the Supreme Court, which previously ruled in April to reinstate Mark’s leadership but did not provide a final verdict on the matter. The Supreme Court instructed that the lower court complete its proceedings regarding the case.
