ADC Appeals Court Ruling That Removed David Mark from Leadership

The African Democratic Congress (ADC), an opposition party in Nigeria, is appealing a recent court ruling that invalidated the leadership of David Mark. This legal challenge comes after a Federal High Court decision on November 5, 2026, which declared the Mark-led leadership null and void.

In response to the ruling, the ADC has filed a notice of appeal and requested that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) refrain from taking any actions related to the court’s decision while the appeal is ongoing. Phrank Shaibu, the Director of Strategic Communication for the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, emphasized that the electoral commission must respect the ongoing legal process.

Shaibu warned that any actions taken by INEC before the appeal is resolved could interfere with the court’s decision-making process. The ADC’s legal team has formally notified INEC of the appeal and requested a suspension of any further actions regarding the leadership issue.

Despite the legal battle, the ADC insists that it will continue its political activities and preparations for the upcoming 2027 general election. Shaibu reassured party members and supporters that their campaign efforts will proceed without interruption, emphasizing their commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians.

The court’s ruling stemmed from a lawsuit filed by Nafiu Bala Gombe, a former ADC National Deputy Chairman for the North-East, who argued that he should have taken over the party’s leadership after the resignation of former National Chairman Ralph Nwosu. The court’s decision not only affected the leadership but also impacted the process for selecting the party’s presidential candidate.

In reaction to the ruling, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC National Publicity Secretary, criticized the decision as an attempt to weaken the opposition and limit Nigerians’ choices in leadership.