A ruling from Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court has disbanded the caretaker committee of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), headed by David Mark, and nullified the party’s presidential nomination for Alhaji Atiku Abubakar. This decision creates significant uncertainty for the ADC as the impending 2027 general elections approach.
The judgment was based on a lawsuit filed by Alhaji Nafiu Bala Gombe, a former deputy chairman of the party, who claimed the caretaker committee was illegal. As a result, all activities, including primaries conducted by the committee, have been rendered void.
The ADC has stated that it will appeal the decision. Following the ruling, ADC spokesperson Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi criticized the timing of the judgment, suggesting it was a politically motivated attempt to weaken the opposition. Abdullah linked the ruling to the ADC’s recent successful campaign rally in Sokoto, asserting that it aimed to undermine the party’s electoral prospects.
Alhaji Atiku Abubakar also contended that the ruling was a deliberate effort to diminish his support in the northern regions of Nigeria and disrupt his campaign, which he claims resonates with voters across the country.
Officials from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have dismissed these accusations. Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, emphasized that the judiciary operates based on facts and evidence rather than political sentiment.
The case traces back to last year when political figures joined the ADC, prompting resignations within its national leadership. After a series of legal challenges and appeals concerning the legitimacy of the caretaker committee, Justice Lifu has now ruled in favor of Gombe’s claims, declaring that all actions taken by the committee are illegal.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, this ruling comes at a critical juncture, with concerns about rising political tensions. Observers urge the judiciary to act with caution to avoid exacerbating the situation and to protect the democratic process. The ADC’s future as a viable political contender is now in jeopardy, raising questions about the impact on opposition dynamics ahead of the election.
