Nigeria’s political landscape is heating up as the leadership crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress (ADC) takes a dramatic legal turn, with former Senate President David Mark asking a Federal High Court in Abuja to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to restore recognition to his faction.
The dispute follows INEC’s decision on April 1 to remove the names of key ADC officials, including Mark and National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola, from its official portal after a Court of Appeal ruling ordered parties to maintain the “status quo ante bellum.”
In a motion filed April 7, Mark is seeking an injunction to reverse INEC’s action, arguing that the commission misinterpreted the appellate court’s directive and created a leadership vacuum within the party. He also wants the court to compel INEC to monitor ADC congresses and conventions pending the resolution of the case.
Mark’s legal team insists that as of September 2025—when the suit began—he remained the duly recognised chairman, and any deviation from that position undermines the rule of law and democratic order within the party.
Protests and Political Heavyweights Weigh In
The legal showdown comes amid rising political tension. Earlier this week, prominent figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Rotimi Amaechi staged a protest at INEC headquarters, demanding the resignation of its chairman and commissioners.
However, the move has drawn sharp criticism from political opponents. Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro dismissed the calls for resignation as ineffective, warning that such actions could further inflame tensions without addressing underlying electoral challenges.
Similarly, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain Segun Sowunmi accused the protesting bloc of attempting to pressure institutions for political gain, insisting that legal disputes should remain in the courts.
Counter-Protests and Rival Claims
The crisis took another twist with a counter-protest led by Rafiu Bala Gombe and lawmaker Leke Abejide, who urged INEC to recognise Gombe as the legitimate ADC chairman.
Gombe maintains that the Court of Appeal’s order supports his claim, arguing that restoring the “status quo ante bellum” means reinstating him—not sidelining all factions. He also accused the Mark-led group of attempting to hijack the party structure through illegitimate means.
Legal Battle Intensifies
Mark’s lawyer, Sulaiman Usman (SAN), is pushing for an accelerated hearing, warning that the ongoing uncertainty threatens the party’s ability to function and participate effectively in Nigeria’s democratic process.
According to the legal filing, INEC’s stance of non-recognition risks rendering the case meaningless and encouraging parallel leadership structures within the ADC.
The Court of Appeal had earlier directed all parties to return to the lower court while maintaining the existing order before the dispute—an interpretation now fiercely contested by both factions.
What Lies Ahead
With protests on the streets, rival claims to leadership, and a fast-tracked court case underway, the ADC crisis is shaping into a major political flashpoint ahead of the 2027 general elections.
INEC has said it will review submissions from both camps, but for now, the battle for control of the party appears far from over—both in the courtroom and on the political stage.