Appeal Court Invalidates ADC State Congresses Led by David Mark

The Court of Appeal in Abuja has upheld a Federal High Court order barring INEC from recognising or participating in state congresses organised by the David Mark–led caretaker committee of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The two-to-one majority dismissed appeals by Senator David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as lacking merit and awarded ₦10 million in costs against them. Justices Abang and Okorowo agreed that only duly elected state executive committees have authority to conduct party congresses. They affirmed that the Mark-appointed committees exceeded the powers granted under both the 1999 Constitution and the ADC’s constitution. In a dissenting opinion, Justice Mohammed argued that the dispute was a non-justiciable internal party matter. Observers note the ruling could jeopardise the presidential ambitions of Atiku Abubakar and other candidates chosen at the now-nullified national congress ahead of the 2027 elections. The ADC, represented by its National Welfare Secretary, has signalled plans to appeal to the Supreme Court.

Use The App To Win ₦1m

Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.