2027: ADC Will Be on Ballot, David Mark Assures Members

National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, Senator David Mark, has reassured party members, candidates and supporters that the ADC will participate in the 2027 general elections despite the recent Federal High Court judgment ordering its deregistration.

Mark gave the assurance in Abuja while receiving a delegation of ADC candidates who visited him shortly after the court ruling. His position was made public through a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Kola Ologbondiyan.

The former Senate President described the judgment as a development that could affect Nigeria’s democratic process if allowed to stand. He expressed confidence that the decision would eventually be overturned through the judicial system.

According to him, there are legal issues surrounding the ruling, particularly because the Court of Appeal had earlier ordered a stay of proceedings in the matter and fixed a later date for further hearing. He questioned the validity of a judgment delivered while an order from a higher court was still in place.

Mark maintained that the ADC remains committed to defending its legal rights and protecting the interests of its members across the country. He said the party would pursue all available legal options to challenge the judgment and restore its status.

He urged party members not to lose hope or become discouraged by the development, describing the situation as a temporary obstacle that can be resolved through lawful means. He encouraged candidates preparing for future elections to remain focused on their political activities and continue engaging with voters.

The ADC chairman also appealed for calm among supporters, assuring them that the party’s leadership is fully committed to ensuring that the organisation remains active and competitive ahead of the next general election.

He reiterated that the party would continue working toward its political goals and strengthening its structures nationwide despite the legal challenge. According to him, the ADC remains determined to provide Nigerians with an alternative political platform as preparations for the 2027 elections continue.

Mark further stated that democratic institutions must be protected and that political parties should be allowed to operate within the framework of the law without actions capable of limiting political participation or voter choice.

The reassurance comes amid growing reactions to the Federal High Court ruling that ordered the deregistration of the ADC and several other political parties over alleged constitutional issues. While the affected parties have rejected the judgment, many have already signalled their intention to challenge the decision at the appellate courts.

Despite the uncertainty created by the ruling, the ADC leadership insists that the party will remain in the race and is confident that the courts will ultimately decide the matter in its favour before the 2027 general elections.