Former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi has expressed concern that a recent judgment from the Federal High Court could lead to significant political turmoil for the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The court ruling, issued last Thursday, invalidated the leadership of the party’s National Working Committee, which was led by former Senate President David Mark. It also annulled the selection of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar as the party’s candidate for the upcoming presidential election in 2027.
Delivered by Justice Peter Lifu, the judgment further nullified the appointment of Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary, among other decisions made during the party’s 99th National Executive Committee meeting in 2025. The court mandated the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) not to recognize any decisions made at that meeting.
The ruling arose from a lawsuit filed by Nafiu Gombe, the former ADC Deputy National Chairman (North-East), challenging the legitimacy of Mark’s leadership.
In an interview, Amaechi warned that failing to manage the fallout from this judgment could lead to civil conflict. He recounted discussions with the party’s leadership aimed at de-escalating tensions following the ruling. Amaechi also referenced an alleged document and video evidence that he believes could support the party’s claims against the lawsuit.
He emphasized that the issues within the ADC are exacerbated by fears surrounding the All Progressives Congress (APC), suggesting that the ADC is the primary opposition to the APC. Amaechi elaborated on the political climate, noting the challenges against prominent candidates from the South-West and South-East regions who could affect the APC’s voter base.
Reflecting on his own political journey, Amaechi noted that a previous mistake was listening to former President Muhammadu Buhari’s advice to refrain from campaigning during the 2023 primaries, which he believes contributed to his defeat. He expressed an unwillingness to engage in identity politics, signaling his commitment to an inclusive political strategy.
