The leadership tussle within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has taken a fresh turn as the Federal High Court in Abuja has barred former Senate President David Mark, ex-Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, and others from parading themselves as national leaders of the party.
Justice Emeka Nwite issued the interim order on September 4, 2025, following a motion ex parte filed on September 2 by Honourable Nafiu Bala Gombe. A copy of the ruling was made public on September 11.
Court’s Order
In the case, the ADC was listed as the 1st defendant, David Mark as 2nd, Aregbesola as 3rd, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as 4th, and Ralph Nwosu as 5th.
Part of the court’s directive reads:
“An order of interim injunction restraining the 4th Defendant from recognizing the 2nd and 3rd Defendants as the National Chairman and National Secretary, their agents, cohorts and privies of the 1st Defendant/Respondent herein pending the hearing of the Motion on Notice already filed in this matter.”
With this ruling, Mark, Aregbesola, and their allies are temporarily stopped from claiming the top leadership positions of the ADC until the substantive case is resolved.
Reaction from ADC Faction
Welcoming the decision, Dr. Christopher Okechukwu, Director of Media and Public Affairs of Bala’s faction, described it as a vindication of their stance. According to him, the ruling affirms Bala’s position as National Chairman and clears the way for “restoring the authentic glory of the ADC.”
He further announced that membership registration would soon open nationwide, urging political leaders and Nigerians to rally behind Bala’s leadership for what he called “a stronger and more inclusive future.”
The INEC Twist
Interestingly, this development comes just days after SaharaReporters reported that INEC had formally recognised David Mark as ADC National Chairman and Aregbesola as National Secretary. The Commission had also listed Dr. Mani Ibrahim (National Treasurer), Akibu Dalhatu (National Financial Secretary), and Professor Oserheimen Osunbor (National Legal Adviser) on its official website as part of the newly recognised leadership.
Mark had earlier emerged as interim National Chairman in July 2025 at the Yar’Adua Conference Centre, Abuja, following the resignation of long-serving party leader Ralph Nwosu. In a letter dated July 29, 2025, Nwosu had notified INEC of resolutions passed by the ADC National Executive Committee (NEC) that paved the way for the new leadership.
What Lies Ahead?
The Abuja court ruling has now placed the party in a delicate position—caught between judicial orders and INEC’s recognition of a different leadership. All eyes are on the coming weeks as the court proceeds to hear the substantive matter that will determine the legitimate leadership of the ADC.
