Mark’s ADC Writes CJN, Seeks Urgent S’Court Judgment

The African Democratic Congress (ADC), led by former Senate President David Mark, has taken a significant step by writing to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun. The party is urgently seeking a swift judgment from the Supreme Court on an appeal related to its internal leadership crisis. The ADC's legal counsel, Shuaibu E. Aruwa (SAN), conveyed in a letter dated April 28 that any further postponement of the verdict could have severe repercussions, potentially barring the party from participating in the crucial 2027 general elections.

This plea comes shortly after the Supreme Court concluded its hearing on the leadership dispute on April 22, reserving its judgment without setting a date. The ADC's legal team emphasized that 'justice delayed would amount to justice denied,' particularly given the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) actions. The electoral body has reportedly acted to remove or de-recognize the ADC's leadership, citing lower court rulings. This has left the party without recognized leadership, even as it remains a registered political entity in Nigeria.

“

My Lord, this appeal was graciously heard expeditiously on the 22nd April, 2026, and judgment was thereafter reserved to a date to be communicated by the court. However, My Lord, we are most respectfully constrained to request for my Lord’s kind intervention and directive in ensuring that the judgment is rendered timeously having regard that INEC the 4th Respondent in the said Appeal purportedly, acting pursuant to the judgment of the lower court in Appeal No: CA/ABJ/145/2026 acted to remove or de-recognize the leadership of the African Democratic Congress, ADC leaving the ADC without leadership at the moment even though the ADC remains a recognized registered political party in Nigeria.

The ADC's letter also draws the attention of the Chief Justice to the INEC Timetable for the 2027 General Elections, noting that preparatory activities have already commenced. The party is concerned that the ongoing leadership vacuum, stemming from the delayed Supreme Court judgment, could prevent them from meeting INEC's deadlines for party primaries and other electoral requirements. The ADC's appeal is specifically challenging lower court rulings that have contributed to the current leadership crisis, and they are imploring the apex court to intervene and ensure a timely resolution.

“

My Lord, we also respectfully draw Your Lordship’s attention to the INEC Timetable for the 2027 General Elections and the activities in readiness which have already commenced.