David Mark-Led ADC Faction Protests At Abuja Federal High Court

Supporters of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by Senator David Mark, protested the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, calling on the judiciary to remain independent and resist any attempt to weaken opposition parties.

The protesters occupied the entrance of the court premises as the leadership dispute within the ADC continues to generate legal and political attention.

The crisis centres on rival claims to the party’s leadership between the faction headed by Senator David Mark and another led by Nafiu Bala-Gombe.

Demonstrators alleged that the ongoing court case is being used to create distractions for the opposition party, stressing that the legal battle could undermine the ADC’s efforts if not handled fairly and promptly.

The dispute stems from a lawsuit filed by Bala-Gombe, who challenged the legitimacy of the leadership structure headed by David Mark and raised concerns about how the current leadership emerged.

Earlier this year, the Supreme Court intervened in the matter by overturning a previous ruling of the Court of Appeal in Abuja.

The appellate court had directed all parties involved in the dispute to maintain the existing situation pending the determination of the case.

That earlier ruling had prompted the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withdraw recognition of the David Mark-led leadership.

However, in a unanimous decision delivered by a five-member panel, the Supreme Court set aside the Court of Appeal’s order and directed that the substantive case be returned to the Federal High Court for speedy hearing and determination.

Following the Supreme Court judgment, INEC reinstated David Mark as National Chairman of the ADC and restored the party’s National Working Committee.

The electoral commission also updated its official records to reflect the leadership structure headed by Mark.

Under the revised listing, former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola was recognised as the party’s National Secretary, while other key officials were also restored to their positions.

Those reinstated include Mani Ahmad as National Treasurer, Akibu Dalhatu as National Financial Secretary, and Oserheimen Osunbor as National Legal Adviser.

The leadership dispute remains before the court, with both sides awaiting further proceedings at the Federal High Court.

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