By| Goodluck E.Adubazi,
Abuja
The Okehi/Adavi House of Representatives Hopeful, Hon. Dr. Aisha Ibrahim Adoke, has welcomed the Supreme Court’s ruling affirming David Mark as the legitimate National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, describing the judgement as a significant boost for democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria.
Reacting to the development, the Okehi/Adavi House of Representatives hopeful, Aisha Ibrahim Adoke, congratulated Mark and his leadership team on what she termed a “supreme victory.” She also praised the judiciary for delivering what she described as a sound and courageous judgement.
The Supreme Court, in a unanimous decision delivered on Thursday by a five-member panel led by Mohammed Lawal Garba, ruled that the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal exceeded its jurisdiction by issuing orders after dismissing a case filed by a faction within the party.
The apex court criticized the appellate court’s directive to maintain the “status quo ante bellum,” describing it as inappropriate and wrongly applied, noting that such orders are merely preservatory in nature.
While the court partially upheld Mark’s appeal, it dismissed his objection to an earlier ex parte order of the Federal High Court concerning the service of court documents filed by aggrieved members of the party. The court subsequently directed all factions within the ADC to return to the trial court for continuation of the case.
The ruling follows a recent decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withdraw recognition of the party’s national executive council led by Mark, citing the earlier Court of Appeal judgement.
In her statement, Adoke described the Supreme Court’s verdict as “a welcome development for democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria,” emphasizing that the judiciary has once again demonstrated its commitment to fairness, due process, and constitutional governance.
“We sincerely commend the Nigerian judiciary for standing firm in the defence of justice and democratic principles,” she said. “At a time when many citizens seek renewed confidence in public institutions, this judgement underscores the critical role of the courts as a pillar of democracy.”
She further congratulated members and supporters of the ADC, urging unity and continued dedication to democratic progress in Nigeria.
