ADC leadership crisis intensifies as court begins accelerated hearing in Abuja
A Federal High Court in Abuja has commenced accelerated hearing in a case challenging the leadership structure of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) under Senator David Mark.
Justice Peter Lifu ordered a fast-track trial in the suit after directing all parties to file and exchange their processes ahead of the hearing, which was scheduled to begin immediately.
However, the case has been met with fresh controversy as a chieftain of the party, Nkemakolam Ukandu, has filed a motion requesting the judge’s withdrawal from the matter. He based his request on a petition pending before the National Judicial Council (NJC), alleging issues of corruption, abuse of judicial power, bias, and disobedience to court orders involving both the trial judge and the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court.
The motion for recusal comes amid multiple legal challenges involving the same leadership dispute. Another senior party figure, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, had earlier also filed a motion questioning the judge’s impartiality, citing concerns over alleged bias in previous rulings.
The leadership dispute within the ADC stems from competing claims over control of the party. One faction has sought court orders restraining the David Mark-led leadership from acting on behalf of the party and blocking recognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), while another side insists on the legitimacy of the current leadership structure.
Previous rulings in lower courts and appeals have led to mixed outcomes, including orders for accelerated hearing, dismissal of appeals challenging jurisdiction, and directives to maintain the status quo pending further proceedings. The matter was eventually returned for expedited trial following a Supreme Court decision setting aside earlier status quo orders.
Meanwhile, party spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi has stated that the ADC will not merge with any existing political party but is open to alliances based on shared ideology. He added that the party is positioning itself for the 2027 general elections, promising reforms and stronger opposition presence.
He also criticized the ruling government, citing insecurity and economic challenges, while urging Nigerians to support the ADC in future elections.
The ongoing legal battle continues to deepen internal tensions within the party as multiple factions contest leadership legitimacy in court.
