A massive political earthquake has hit the Nigerian opposition landscape as the Federal High Court in Abuja officially sacked the Senator David Mark-led Caretaker Committee of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and nullified former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s presidential candidacy!
In a landmark judgment delivered by Justice Peter Lifu, the court ruled that the David Mark-led executive committee was set up in total violation of the ADC constitution and the Electoral Act. Consequently, all official actions, primary elections, and decisions taken by the committee—including the nomination of Atiku Abubakar as the party’s flagbearer for the 2027 general elections—were declared null, void, and of no legal effect.
The suit was filed by Nafiu Bala Gombe, a former National Deputy Chairman (North-East) of the party, who challenged the takeover of leadership following the resignation of former National Chairman Chief Ralph Nwosu. Gombe argued that under the party’s constitution, he was rightfully next in line to assume leadership, making the installation of Senator David Mark and former Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola completely illegal.
Justice Lifu agreed with the plaintiff’s claims, restraining Mark and Aregbesola from parading themselves as national officers and ordering the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) not to recognize any actions or candidates produced by the caretaker committee.
The bombshell ruling has sent shockwaves across political circles, throwing the coalition platform into chaos. However, leadership figures within the ADC have already announced plans to file an immediate appeal at the appellate court to challenge the judgment.
What do you think about this court ruling on Atiku’s candidacy and the ADC leadership? Drop your thoughts and political predictions in the comment section below!
