Supreme Court to hear ADC leadership appeal April 22

Nigeria's highest court, the Supreme Court, is set to delve into the protracted leadership crisis plaguing the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The apex court has fixed April 22 for the hearing of an appeal lodged by the party's National Chairman, former Senate President David Mark, signaling a crucial juncture in the internal power struggle.

This legal battle stems from a series of court decisions concerning the control and leadership structure of the ADC. Mark's appeal is directed against a March 12 judgment by the Court of Appeal, which had previously dismissed his own appeal against a September 4, 2025, ruling by the Federal High Court in Abuja. The lower court had refused to grant an injunction sought by a party chieftain, Nafiu Bala Gombe.

The Supreme Court's decision to grant an accelerated hearing underscores the urgency and significance attached to resolving the dispute that has generated multiple litigations. The court has directed the appellant's counsel to expedite the filing of their brief, with respondents also required to respond swiftly. This expedited process aims to bring clarity to the ongoing conflict over who rightfully leads the African Democratic Congress, a matter of considerable interest to party faithful and the broader political landscape.