A major twist has emerged in the ongoing crisis within the African Democratic Congress as a Federal High Court sitting in Maitama, Abuja, has nullified all recent congresses and the party’s national convention, declaring them invalid.
Delivering judgment on Wednesday, the court ruled that the processes that produced party executives across the country did not comply with the party’s constitution or established legal procedures. It held that the exercises were fundamentally flawed and could not stand.
The court stated that the congresses and convention were conducted outside approved guidelines, making their outcomes legally unenforceable. It subsequently directed party leaders and stakeholders to organise fresh congresses and a new national convention in line with constitutional provisions and democratic standards.
The ruling deals a significant blow to factions that had relied on the disputed convention to assert control over the party structure. It also reinforces the position of aggrieved members and state officials who had raised concerns over alleged imposition and exclusion in the process.
The judgment is expected to intensify the internal struggle involving key figures such as David Mark and other coalition actors accused of attempting to dominate the party’s leadership without broad consultation.
Analysts say the development could disrupt wider opposition realignment efforts ahead of the 2027 general elections, particularly among blocs linked to Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Atiku Abubakar.
While many party members view the verdict as a win for internal democracy, it also raises fresh uncertainty about the ADC’s ability to stabilise. Attention now turns to whether the party can conduct a credible fresh process or risk deeper divisions that could weaken its national standing
