David Mark vs Nafiu Bala: Supreme Court reserves judgment on ADC leadership dispute

The Supreme Court of Nigeria has held judgment on a case involving the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a verdict that is likely to affect the party’s future organization and preparedness for the general elections slated for 2027.

In the process of reserving judgment, the Supreme Court took into consideration arguments raised by disputing parties in the case, whose outcome might determine whether the opposition party remains united or not.

Previously, the Supreme Court had ruled that all cases related to the leadership of the major political parties be heard quickly in order to meet the time frame provided by INEC.

In the hearing held yesterday, the court deliberated on the ADC crisis which has pitted two camps against each other; one of which was loyal to David Mark while the other is loyal to Nafiu Bala Gombe. This case, which was filed under number SC/CV/180/2026, further polarized the political party.

Bolaji Abdullahi, who happens to be the ADC National Publicity Secretary, was also seen in the court.

This particular court case revolves around the decision of the court as to whether it would affirm or nullify previous judgements which called into question the legitimacy of Mark’s leadership, resulting in him losing some officials connected to him in the eyes of INEC.

Recently, this crisis has escalated further. The National Convention arranged by the Bala-led camp fell apart because the venue where it was supposed to take place in Abuja was abandoned.

It is worth noting that according to counsel to the appellants, Jibrin Okutepa (SAN), the supreme court had allowed an accelerated hearing and instructed all parties involved to provide briefs within a given timeframe.

The reason why the appeal brought by Mark seeks among other things, a stay of execution of the judgement of the court of appeal and a restraining order against INEC implementing the judgement until a decision is made.

“Well, the question really here before the court is whether this is something that the court can deal with,” Okutepa added, while highlighting constitutional issues revolving around the dispute.

Judgement has now been reserved, and the future of the ADC remains uncertain until it receives a decision that will guide its preparation for the upcoming 2027 polls.