Court Dismisses ADC Leadership, Invalidates Atiku’s Presidential Candidacy

The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which was led by Senator David Mark. The court’s decision also invalidated all actions taken by this leadership, including the nomination of former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar as the party’s candidate for the 2027 presidential election.

Justice Peter Lifu delivered the ruling on Thursday, declaring that the committee led by Senator Mark was illegal. This committee organized the primary election that selected Atiku as the ADC’s presidential candidate. The court’s decision came in response to a lawsuit filed by Nafiu Bala Gombe, a former National Deputy Chairman of the party.

Gombe argued that he should have taken over the party’s leadership after the resignation of the previous chairman, Chief Ralph Nwosu. He sought the court’s help to nullify all actions taken by the Mark-led committee, claiming they violated the party’s rules and electoral laws.

The court agreed with Gombe’s claims and granted his requests. The ruling could lead to significant political reactions, especially with the presidential election set for January 16, 2027. In response, the ADC has announced plans to appeal the court’s decision.

Mr. Nkemakolam Ukandu, the National Welfare Secretary of the ADC, stated that the party intends to challenge the ruling in a higher court. This news follows a large campaign rally held by Atiku in Sokoto State just a day before the court’s decision.