By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Supreme Court of Nigeria on Wednesday reserved judgement on leadership disputes within the African Democratic Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party in Abuja, after hearing appeals from rival factions challenging earlier court rulings, a decision that could determine both parties’ eligibility to contest the 2027 general elections.
ADC Crisis Deepens Amid Legal Battles
The crisis in the ADC stems from a leadership tussle between factions led by David Mark and Nafiu Bala Gombe.
Earlier, the Court of Appeal dismissed Mark’s appeal, describing it as incompetent. The panel, led by Uchechukwu Onyemenam, upheld objections raised against the suit.
Mark, however, insists his faction followed due process. He argues that the party’s National Executive Committee lawfully ratified a caretaker leadership on July 29, 2025.
In addition, he maintains that NEC resolutions empowered the party to manage its affairs and organise conventions.
INEC Withdraws Recognition
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission withdrew recognition from both ADC factions on April 1.
The commission cited a subsisting Court of Appeal order maintaining the status quo. It also stated it would not engage either faction until the court delivers a final judgement.
As a result, the party currently lacks a recognised national leadership structure.
PDP Faces Separate Leadership Dispute
Similarly, the PDP faces its own leadership crisis. A faction led by Kabiru Turaki is challenging court decisions that nullified its November 15–16, 2025 national convention in Ibadan.
The rulings favoured a rival group aligned with Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
Consequently, the dispute has further divided the opposition party ahead of the elections.
Concerns Over 2027 Election Participation
Stakeholders have raised concerns about the implications of the delayed rulings. They warn that both parties may struggle to field candidates.
This concern stems from the timeline set by INEC. Political parties must conduct primaries between April 23 and May 30, 2026.
Without a clear leadership structure, compliance may prove difficult.
Supreme Court to Announce Judgement Date
A five-member panel led by Mohammed Lawal Garba heard the appeals.
After counsel adopted their briefs, the court reserved judgement. It stated that it would communicate the judgement date to all parties.
Outlook for Opposition Politics
The pending rulings could reshape Nigeria’s opposition landscape. A final decision will determine party leadership legitimacy and electoral participation.
Therefore, political observers continue to monitor developments closely.
