The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has appealed to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, to ensure a speedy judgment by the Supreme Court in its ongoing leadership dispute appeal.
The party expressed concern that any prolonged delay in the case could negatively affect its preparations and participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Through its lawyer, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Shuaibu Aruwa, the ADC raised worries over the unresolved appeal currently before the Supreme Court involving the Senator David Mark-led National Working Committee and rival claimant Nafiu Bala-Gombe alongside other parties in the matter.
The party stated that recent actions taken by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), particularly the withdrawal of recognition for the current leadership, have created uncertainty around its political future despite remaining a registered party.
The Supreme Court had earlier reserved judgment after hearing arguments from both sides, with the date for the ruling yet to be announced.
The dispute comes at a critical period as the Electoral Act 2026 sets May 30 as the deadline for political parties to submit candidates for upcoming elections.
During proceedings, counsel to David Mark, Jibrin Okutepa (SAN), argued that courts lack jurisdiction over the internal affairs of political parties, referencing an earlier Supreme Court ruling. However, counsel to Nafiu Bala-Gombe, Robert Emukpero (SAN), urged the apex court to uphold the lower court’s decision dismissing the appeal as premature.
The Court of Appeal had earlier ruled against David Mark’s application, describing it as premature and filed without proper leave. It also directed all parties to maintain the existing situation pending the determination of the substantive case.
Following that ruling, INEC withdrew recognition of the Mark-led leadership, prompting a fresh challenge before the Supreme Court.
