A fresh leadership crisis has erupted within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), as state chairmen from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory have taken legal action against the party’s National Working Committee over alleged constitutional violations.
The dispute centres on decisions by the NWC, reportedly under the leadership of David Mark, particularly the formation of committees to oversee forthcoming state primary elections scheduled for April.
Aggrieved members of the State Working Committees argue that the national leadership has overstepped its authority by unilaterally setting up structures to conduct the primaries. They insist that, under the party’s constitution, such responsibilities rest solely with state executive committees.
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The plaintiffs have approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, filing an originating summons that seeks to halt the planned primaries. They are requesting an interlocutory injunction to restrain the NWC from proceeding with the exercise pending the determination of the case.
Central to the legal challenge is the question of whether the interim or caretaker committee constituted by the NWC has the constitutional authority to organise state primaries. The suit also contests the legality of appointing congress committees outside the framework of the party’s governing rules.
The unfolding crisis highlights deepening internal divisions within the ADC at a critical period, raising concerns about the party’s preparedness for upcoming elections and its ability to manage internal processes in line with its constitution.
Political observers say the outcome of the court case could have far-reaching implications for the party’s structure and its prospects in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
