The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will convene a meeting next week to examine the implications of a Federal High Court ruling that nullified the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) under Senator David Mark. The court's decision, delivered on November 5, 2026, by Justice Peter Lifu, also set aside actions taken by the Mark-led caretaker committee, including the nomination of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as the party's presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.
INEC's Head of Publicity and Voter Education, Mohammed Haruna, announced this development on Sunday, stating that the commission would not take a stance on the ADC leadership crisis until it obtains a Certified True Copy of the court judgment. Haruna emphasized that INEC would rely on the court's certified document rather than media reports to interpret the ruling. The court's decision was prompted by a suit filed by Nafiu Bala Gombe, the former Deputy National Chairman of ADC for the North-East zone.
Gombe's lawsuit challenged the manner in which David Mark and other members of the caretaker committee assumed leadership of the party. He argued that following the resignation of the party's former chairman, Ralph Nwosu, the ADC constitution empowered him to take over as acting chairman. The court's judgment has raised questions about the legitimacy of Atiku Abubakar's candidacy and other actions taken by the Mark-led committee.
INEC will discuss the matter at its meeting next week and will adhere to any new court orders if the David Mark faction appeals the ruling and obtains a stay of execution. The commission's review will focus on ensuring compliance with the court's decision and the ADC's constitution. Atiku Abubakar's presidential bid for 2027 has been thrown into uncertainty by the court's ruling.
The ADC leadership crisis has significant implications for Nigeria's electoral landscape, particularly with regard to the 2027 general elections. INEC's decision to review the court ruling and engage with stakeholders underscores its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process. The commission's actions will be closely watched by political observers and stakeholders.
The court's ruling has also raised questions about the internal democracy of political parties and the role of INEC in regulating their activities. The ADC crisis highlights the complexities of Nigeria's party politics and the need for clear guidelines and effective regulation. INEC's response will be crucial in determining the future of the ADC and Atiku Abubakar's presidential ambitions.
As INEC prepares to review the court ruling, stakeholders are eagerly awaiting the commission's decision and its potential impact on Nigeria's electoral landscape. The outcome will have far-reaching consequences for the ADC, Atiku Abubakar, and the country's democratic process. INEC's commitment to transparency and due process will be essential in resolving the crisis and ensuring the credibility of the electoral process.
Key points
- INEC to review court ruling on ADC leadership crisis and Atiku Abubakar's 2027 presidential bid.
