​This case is a critical juncture in the leadership struggle within the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The legal battle centers on who holds the legitimate leadership of the ADC. Senator David Mark, acting as the National Chairman, is challenging a challenge from Nafiu Bala Gombe (a former deputy national chairman) and others who dispute his authority.
Mark is seeking a stay of execution on a March 12, 2026, Court of Appeal judgment. That lower court ruling dismissed his previous appeal and effectively threw the party’s leadership into “administrative limbo.”
Following the appellate court’s decision, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) withdrew its recognition of both rival factions (Mark’s and Gombe’s), refusing to monitor their meetings or congresses until the legal dust settles.
​Tomorrow’s hearing is pivotal because the Mark-led faction is asking the apex court to Restrain INEC from recognizing any other person as the national officer of the ADC.
It will stop all proceedings in the Federal High Court case (presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite) until the Supreme Court makes a final determination and Restore his recognition as the legitimate chairman to prevent the party from being paralyzed.
Interestingly, the hearing date at the Supreme Court coincides with a date previously set by the Federal High Court. Under the principle of the superiority of courts, the lower court (Federal High Court) is expected to step down or adjourn its proceedings to allow the Supreme Court to lead the way.
