Appeal Court Ruling: ADC Says Party Leadership Remains Unchanged, Warns Against Misinterpretation of Judgment

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has clarified that the recent ruling by the Court of Appeal of Nigeria in the ongoing leadership dispute within the party does not affect its existing leadership structure.
In a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC explained that the appellate court’s decision was procedural and did not address the substantive issues raised in the case challenging the leadership of David Mark as National Chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary.

According to the party, the appeal was dismissed on procedural grounds, and the court did not grant any relief to the plaintiff nor issue any directive affecting the party’s leadership positions.
“The Court of Appeal did not determine the substantive dispute regarding the leadership of the ADC,” the statement noted. “The case challenging the emergence of Senator David Mark as National Chairman and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary remains pending before the Federal High Court of Nigeria and has not yet been heard or decided on its merits.”
The party further stated that the appellate court directed all parties to maintain the status quo, meaning the current leadership structure remains in place pending the final determination of the substantive suit.
ADC therefore urged its members and the general public not to be misled by what it described as inaccurate interpretations of the judgment circulating in some quarters.
“The ruling of the Court of Appeal is purely procedural and does not affect the legitimacy or tenure of the current national leadership of the party,” the statement added.
The party also reassured members that it remains united and focused, dismissing the controversy as part of attempts by what it described as anti-democratic forces seeking to impose a one-party system in Nigeria to create confusion within the opposition.
ADC called on its supporters across the country to remain calm and committed to the party’s programmes while the matter continues before the court.