The Supreme Court will on Thursday deliver judgments in two major political appeals involving the leadership disputes in the African Democratic Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party, in decisions expected to affect ongoing struggles over party control ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The cases were listed on the apex court’s cause list under political appeals, with the ADC matter scheduled for judgment at 2 p.m., while the time for the PDP appeal had yet to be confirmed.
The rulings come amid rising political tension as both parties continue to face internal disputes tied to leadership and party structures.
The ADC appeal centers on the crisis involving former Senate President David Mark and a rival faction led by Nafiu Bala Gombe. The dispute has been the subject of legal battles following a March 12 Court of Appeal ruling directing all parties to maintain the status quo in the matter.
Mark is challenging that decision at the Supreme Court, arguing the dispute concerns internal party affairs and should not have attracted judicial interference.
The appeal was heard on April 22 by a five-member panel led by Justice Mohammed Garba, after which judgment was reserved.
Attention on the case increased after lawyers representing the ADC urged the Chief Justice of Nigeria to ensure a quick ruling, arguing that delay could affect the party’s preparations for the next election cycle.
The legal team linked the urgency to concerns over recognition of party leadership and the implications for the party’s ability to meet requirements tied to the 2027 elections.
According to arguments presented by counsel, uncertainty over the leadership dispute could affect the party’s participation in the electoral process if unresolved.
The lawyers also raised concerns over actions by the Independent National Electoral Commission which they believe could affect the party’s structure while the legal battle remains unsettled.
They argued that the outcome of the appeal is tied to the party’s ability to comply with electoral timelines and maintain its place in preparations for the next general election.
Beyond the ADC case, the expected judgment in the PDP appeal has also drawn interest, as both rulings may shape political developments in two major opposition parties.
The cases come at a period when parties are already positioning ahead of 2027, making the Supreme Court decisions closely watched by political actors and supporters.
Observers say the judgments could influence leadership control, internal party stability and possible alignments ahead of the elections.
With both appeals now before the apex court for final decisions, attention has shifted to Thursday’s rulings and their effect on the political landscape.