The faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by Senator David Mark has denied reports suggesting it is negotiating a political alliance with the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), insisting instead that its attention is focused on an ongoing court case that could influence the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
The group clarified that it remains committed to its legal battle over the leadership of the party, which is currently before the Supreme Court. The apex court is expected to hear an appeal tomorrow challenging a lower court ruling that restrained Senator Mark from presenting himself as the national chairman of the ADC.
There had been speculation that a possible unfavourable judgment might push the faction to consider alternative political arrangements, including talks with other opposition parties. However, the ADC leadership dismissed such claims as false and misleading.
Speaking on behalf of the party, its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, stated that the ADC is not engaged in any discussions with the PRP or any other political party. He emphasized that the party remains focused on reversing what it described as unlawful actions affecting its leadership structure.
According to him, the coalition remains open to collaboration with other opposition groups but is not considering abandoning its platform. He described suggestions of defection or merger as premature and speculative.
The leadership crisis stems from a legal dispute involving the legitimacy of the party’s national executive. The case originated from a suit filed by a former deputy national chairman, Nafiu Bala Gombe, who challenged the authority of the current leadership and sought recognition as acting national chairman.
The matter has moved through the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal, both of which have issued rulings that have intensified the dispute. The Court of Appeal recently dismissed an appeal filed by the Mark-led faction and directed that the status quo be maintained pending further proceedings.
Following the controversy, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced that it would suspend recognition of both factions until the legal issues are resolved.
Meanwhile, internal tensions within the ADC have spilled into public demonstrations, as party youths staged protests at INEC offices in several states under the banner demanding leadership accountability and institutional reforms.
Despite the unrest, the ADC insists its focus remains on the Supreme Court case, which it believes will be decisive for the party’s future and its role in Nigeria’s 2027 political contests.
