BREAKING: Appeal Court Affirms Federal High Court Judgment Restricting INEC’s Recognition of ADC Congresses Led by David Mark
By Fact Harbour News
The Court of Appeal has affirmed the judgment of the Federal High Court restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising or participating in congresses organised by the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) reportedly led by former Senate President David Mark.
In a judgment delivered on Monday, the appellate court dismissed the appeal filed by David Mark and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, holding that the appeal lacked merit. The court also awarded ₦10 million in costs against the appellants.
The decision upholds the earlier ruling of the Federal High Court, which restrained INEC from recognising or participating in congresses conducted by the disputed leadership pending the determination of issues surrounding the party’s internal leadership and organisational structure.
The judgment represents a significant development in the ongoing legal dispute within the ADC, a matter that has attracted considerable attention because of the involvement of prominent political figures and its potential implications for the party’s activities ahead of future elections.
Legal observers say the ruling reinforces the principle that political parties and their officials are expected to comply with court orders while disputes relating to party leadership and internal administration are being determined through the judicial process.
The outcome could also influence the conduct of future party congresses, leadership decisions, and interactions with the electoral commission, depending on the legal options available to the affected parties. Under Nigerian law, parties dissatisfied with a judgment of the Court of Appeal may pursue any further remedies available within the judicial system where applicable.
As of the time of filing this report, neither David Mark, Rauf Aregbesola, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), nor the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had issued official statements in response to the appellate court’s decision.
Political analysts believe the ruling may shape developments within the party in the coming weeks as stakeholders consider its legal and political implications. However, they note that the judgment primarily addresses the issues placed before the court and does not determine broader political questions beyond the scope of the litigation.
Fact Harbour News will continue to monitor the case and provide verified updates as the full judgment becomes available and the parties involved respond to the court’s decision.