By Wellington Jopelo
A fresh twist has emerged in the leadership battle within the African Democratic Congress after a Federal High Court in Abuja stopped the electoral body from recognising certain party congresses.
The court ruled that the Independent National Electoral Commission must not take part in or validate any congress organised by a disputed caretaker leadership within the party.
The judgment, delivered by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, also placed restrictions on key figures, including David Mark, preventing them from interfering with the duties of existing state executives.
The case was filed by party members representing state chairpersons, who challenged the legality of the caretaker committee and its decision to organise congresses across states.
They argued that the interim leadership lacked the constitutional authority to conduct such exercises or appoint committees for that purpose.
In its ruling, the court upheld the position that state-level party structures remain valid and should not be disrupted by actions from a contested national leadership.
The decision is expected to significantly affect ongoing political activities within the party, especially as preparations gradually begin ahead of future elections.
The ADC has been dealing with internal divisions for months, with multiple factions laying claim to leadership and control of party structures.
Earlier developments had already seen confusion over recognised leadership, with electoral authorities distancing themselves from rival factions pending legal clarity.
Observers say the latest court order may temporarily stabilise the situation at the state level, even as the broader leadership dispute remains unresolved.
The ruling also highlights the increasing role of the judiciary in settling internal party conflicts as political tensions rise.
Attention is now on how the different factions within the party will respond and whether further legal battles will follow.
As the crisis continues, the outcome of the case could shape the party’s direction and influence its readiness for upcoming political contests.