TDThe Supreme Court of Nigeria has affirmed the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) under former Senate President David Mark, setting aside the controversial status quo ante bellum order previously issued by the Court of Appeal.
In a unanimous decision delivered today, the apex court ruled that the directive to maintain status quo ante bellum was a preservatory order “wrongly made in this case.”
The judgment restores the David Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC) to full control of the party while the substantive matter continues at the Federal High Court.
Key Points of the Ruling
- Leadership Restored: The David Mark-led NWC is reinstated as the legitimate leadership of the ADC.
- Order Voided: The status quo ante bellum directive, which had frozen party leadership, was declared invalid.
- Unanimous Decision: All justices agreed that the order was misapplied and lacked proper legal foundation.
Implications for ADC
This ruling ends months of uncertainty within the ADC, which had been plagued by factional disputes and conflicting directives.
By affirming David Mark’s leadership, the Supreme Court provides clarity ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle, ensuring the party remains on the ballot.
Legal analysts note that the decision underscores the Supreme Court’s role in correcting procedural missteps and restoring constitutional order within political parties.
The Supreme Court has unanimously voided the status quo ante bellum order and reinstated David Mark’s leadership of the ADC.
The ruling stabilizes the party’s hierarchy while ongoing litigation continues at the Federal High Court.
More details shortly…
