Members of the National Working Committee of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by former Senate President David Mark on Monday staged a protest at the Federal High Court in Abuja over the ongoing leadership dispute within the party.
The demonstration was organised as the legal battle between the David Mark faction and another group led by Nafiu Bala continues before the courts.
The protesters gathered at the court premises to express concerns about the case and what they described as attempts to weaken opposition politics through judicial processes. They urged the judiciary to remain independent and ensure that its decisions are guided by justice and fairness.
The protest comes amid a prolonged leadership tussle that has created divisions within the party. At the centre of the dispute is a lawsuit filed by Nafiu Bala, who is challenging the leadership structure currently headed by David Mark.
Members of the Mark faction believe the legal action is creating unnecessary distractions for the party at a time when it is preparing for future political activities.
The disagreement has already passed through different levels of the judicial system. Earlier this year, the Supreme Court reviewed aspects of the dispute and overturned an order previously issued by the Court of Appeal in Abuja. That order had directed all parties involved in the case to maintain the existing situation pending the resolution of the matter.
Following the appellate court ruling at the time, the Independent National Electoral Commission took steps that affected the recognition of the David Mark-led leadership. However, the Supreme Court later ruled that the matter should return to the Federal High Court for a speedy hearing.
The apex court’s decision was delivered by a panel of five justices who agreed that the substantive issues raised in the suit should be determined by the trial court. As a result, both sides were directed to continue their legal battle at the Federal High Court where the case originally began.
Supporters of the David Mark faction who participated in Monday’s protest insisted that the court process should not be used in a manner that could hinder opposition parties from carrying out their activities. They maintained that political disputes should be handled fairly and without external influence.
The leadership crisis has continued to attract attention within political circles as party members await the outcome of the court proceedings. Observers believe the final judgment could shape the future direction of the ADC and determine which leadership structure will be recognised going forward.
With the case now back before the Federal High Court, both factions are expected to present their arguments as the judiciary moves to resolve the dispute. The outcome is likely to play an important role in the party’s preparations ahead of future elections and political engagements.