The Federal High Court in Abuja has affirmed the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), bringing to a close another legal challenge against the party's National Working Committee led by Senator David Mark.

In a judgment delivered by Hon. Justice M. S. Liman in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1637/2025, filed by Hon. Leke Joseph Abejide against the African Democratic Congress and four others, the court struck out the suit for lack of jurisdiction and ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to accord recognition to Senator David Mark and other members of the party's National Working Committee as the duly elected national officers of the ADC.

The court held that the issues raised by the plaintiff related to the internal affairs of the party and therefore fell outside the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court. Justice Liman further ruled that the matter was not a pre-election dispute as contemplated under Section 251 of the 1999 Constitution, that the plaintiff lacked the legal standing to institute the action, and that he failed to exhaust the internal dispute resolution mechanisms provided under the Constitution of the African Democratic Congress.

Beyond striking out the case, the court also upheld the legitimacy of the current National Working Committee, affirming that Senator David Mark and the party's national officers emerged through a process conducted in accordance with the law and the Constitution of the ADC. Consequently, the court directed INEC to recognise the current leadership of the party.

Reacting to the judgment, the African Democratic Congress welcomed the decision, describing it as a reaffirmation of the long-established legal principle that matters relating to the internal leadership of political parties are, except where otherwise provided by law, not subject to judicial interference.

The party noted that the ruling reinforces the legitimacy of its current leadership and underscores the importance of respecting internal democratic processes as provided under the Electoral Act, 2022, and the Constitution of the ADC.

According to the party, the judgment represents another important victory for Nigeria's multiparty democracy and serves as a reminder that the judiciary remains a critical pillar in safeguarding constitutional governance and the rule of law.

The ADC also expressed hope that the decision would put an end to what it described as repeated and unnecessary legal distractions aimed at destabilising the party at a time when Nigerians expect political actors to focus on addressing the country's pressing challenges.

The party observed that millions of Nigerians continue to grapple with insecurity, rising inflation, unemployment, and declining economic opportunities, stressing that its priority remains providing credible policy alternatives and practical solutions to improve the lives of citizens rather than engaging in prolonged legal disputes.

While welcoming the outcome of the case, the ADC reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening democratic institutions, promoting internal party democracy, and advancing issue-based politics in the interest of national development.

The party also commended the courage and impartiality demonstrated by the court in upholding the law. It particularly noted the court's decision to award costs against the plaintiff and his legal representatives, expressing the hope that the ruling would discourage the filing of frivolous suits intended to distract political parties from their constitutional responsibilities.

The African Democratic Congress expressed appreciation to its members, supporters, and millions of Nigerians who have continued to stand with the party throughout the legal process. It called on all party faithful to remain united, focused, and confident as the ADC continues to consolidate its structures and prepare to offer Nigerians a credible alternative founded on competent leadership, national unity, and democratic renewal.

As the party looks ahead, it remains steadfast in its commitment to justice, the rule of law, and the advancement of a democratic Nigeria where political competition is guided by constitutional principles, respect for institutions, and the will of the people.