By By Elizabeth Ugbo
A Chief Judge of the Federal High Court in Abuja recently reassigned a lawsuit filed by Nafiu Bala against the African Democratic Congress (ADC) leadership to Justice Peter Lifu. The case challenges the legitimacy of David Mark, Rauf Aregbesola, and other interim national working committee members. Bala filed the suit in Abuja to stop them from acting as party leaders, citing alleged breaches of the ADC constitution and the Electoral Act. The court action followed a dispute over leadership control, and the reassignment came after judicial review and internal court administration processes this week.
Background of the ADC Leadership Crisis
Nafiu Bala, a former deputy national chairman of the ADC, initiated the legal challenge. He argued that the party’s interim leadership emerged unlawfully. He insisted that the process violated internal party rules and Nigeria’s Electoral Act.
The defendants include the ADC, David Mark, Rauf Aregbesola, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and Ralph Nwosu. Nwosu is a former national chairman who stepped down before the disputed leadership emerged.
Supreme Court Ruling Influences Proceedings
The Supreme Court set aside an earlier Court of Appeal decision on April 30. The appellate court had ordered all parties to maintain the status quo. INEC previously relied on that order to withdraw recognition of the Mark-led leadership.
After the Supreme Court ruling, Bala’s counsel urged the court to transfer the case. He cited fairness concerns and requested reassignment to another judge.
Opposition to Transfer Request
Lawyers representing the ADC, Mark, Aregbesola, and Nwosu opposed the transfer request. They described it as forum shopping. They also argued that the move could delay accelerated hearing of the case.
The disagreement created tension in court proceedings. However, the judge awaited further judicial direction.
Reassignment to Justice Peter Lifu
The Chief Judge later reassigned the case to Justice Peter Lifu. The reassignment followed recommendations involving Justice Emeka Nwite.
The National Judicial Council had recently recommended Nwite among judges elevated to the Court of Appeal. The reassignment ensures continuity in the ongoing political dispute case.
Ongoing Legal Battle
The ADC leadership dispute remains unresolved. The court will now continue hearing the matter under a new judge. Parties await fresh hearing dates and further directives.
