By| Goodluck E.Adubazi | Abuja
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has dismissed a lawsuit challenging the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) under former Senate President David Mark, ruling that the matter falls strictly within the internal affairs of the political party and is not subject to judicial intervention.
Delivering judgment, Justice A. K. Tukur stated that the court carefully considered a motion seeking to vacate an interim order earlier granted on April 7, 2026.
Upon reviewing the arguments and submissions presented, the court determined that the dispute centers entirely on the internal administration of the ADC.
In reaching its decision, the court relied on Section 83(5) of the Electoral Act, which restricts judicial involvement in matters relating to the internal affairs of political parties. The provision also prohibits courts from granting interim orders in such disputes.
On the Implications of the Ruling,
The judgment effectively means that the ongoing leadership tussle within the ADC must be resolved internally by party members without court interference. It further reinforces the long-standing legal principle that Nigerian courts generally refrain from meddling in the internal matters of political parties.
