The African Democratic Congress faces a defining moment today as the Supreme Court of Nigeria delivers judgment on its leadership crisis, a ruling widely seen as crucial to the party’s chances in the 2027 general elections.
The case stems from rival claims over who should control the party after conflicting lower court decisions.
The appeal, marked SC/CV/180/2026, involves factions linked to David Mark and Bala Gombe.
Political observers say the verdict could determine whether the ADC enters the next election cycle united or deeply divided.
Earlier, the Federal High Court barred the Independent National Electoral Commission from recognising any congress organised by a disputed caretaker leadership.
The court also restrained David Mark and others from interfering with elected state executives, affirming their constitutional tenure.
Senior lawyer Shaibu Aruwa had urged the Chief Justice to fast-track the ruling, warning that delays could leave the ADC without a recognised structure and potentially exclude it from the 2027 ballot.
He said millions of supporters risk losing their right to contest through the party.
Despite the uncertainty, aspirants within the ADC are said to be intensifying consultations ahead of 2027.
Today’s judgment is expected to either restore stability or deepen the crisis within one of Nigeria’s opposition parties.