Supreme Court restores David Mark‑led ADC leadership as Atiku, party hail ruling

Crime Diary, Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Supreme Court of Nigeria on Thursday restored the leadership structure of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by former Senate President David Mark, after setting aside an earlier order of the Court of Appeal directing parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum.

In its ruling, the apex court held that the preservative order issued by the lower court was unnecessary and improper, especially after the appeal before it had already been dismissed. Delivering judgment, Justice Mohammed Garba stated that there was effectively “nothing left” for the appellate court to preserve at the time the order was made.

The Supreme Court consequently vacated the directive and ordered that the substantive leadership dispute be returned to the Federal High Court for hearing on its merits. The ruling effectively restores the David Mark‑led structure, including former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola, who serves as National Secretary, pending the outcome of the substantive suit.

The court emphasized that preservative or status quo orders can only be issued where a valid subject matter requires protection. “Giving such an order in an appeal it had already dismissed was unnecessary, unwarranted and improper,” it held.

The decision carries significant implications for the ADC’s internal leadership contest ahead of political realignments and preparations for the 2027 general elections. The crisis had triggered legal battles among rival factions over control of the party’s national structure.

As of press time, the certified true copy of the judgment had not yet been released. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar welcomed the ruling, describing it as a firm affirmation of David Mark’s leadership, while warning against complacency. He urged supporters to remain vigilant, stressing that “eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.”

The ADC also congratulated members nationwide, calling the judgment a clear affirmation of its legitimacy under Senator Mark and Ogbeni Aregbesola. The party commended the unanimous five‑man panel of the Supreme Court, while warning that attempts to weaken opposition voices persist. It vowed to remain resolute in its mission to provide Nigerians with a credible alternative and urged members and supporters to stay vigilant.