Court Nullifies ADC Congresses, Orders Fresh National Convention

By Joseph Sunday

The Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja has nullified all congresses and the national convention of the African Democratic Congress, ruling that the processes were illegal and breached due process requirements.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, who delivered the judgment on Wednesday morning, held that the state congresses and the national convention that produced the party’s executives did not comply with the ADC constitution or the legal standards for internal party administration.

The court found that the exercises were conducted in violation of established procedures, making the outcomes invalid. It directed party chairmen and stakeholders to restart the process and conduct fresh congresses and a national convention in line with the ADC constitution and democratic principles.

The ruling is a blow to factions that had used the disputed convention to assert control of the party’s structure. It also backs aggrieved members and state chairmen who had alleged imposition, exclusion, and the sidelining of recognized party structures.

The judgment could intensify the leadership tussle involving figures like former Senate President David Mark and other coalition actors accused of trying to take over the party without consulting grassroots stakeholders.

Analysts say the decision may impact opposition coalition plans ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly for groups that planned to use the ADC as a joint platform for supporters of Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Atiku Abubakar, and other opposition leaders.

For many members, the verdict is being viewed as a win for internal democracy and a caution against bypassing due process. Focus now turns to whether the ADC can reorganize peacefully and rebuild member trust, or if the crisis will deepen and weaken the party’s national standing.