By SUNTV Global Channel | July 13, 2026
The Court of Appeal in Abuja has upheld an earlier ruling restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising or participating in any state congresses organised by committees appointed by the David Mark-led caretaker leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The decision, delivered by a three-member panel of the appellate court in a split 2–1 judgment, affirmed the earlier order of the Federal High Court, leaving the restraining order in full effect.
In the lead judgment, the court ruled that it found no legal basis to overturn the Federal High Court’s decision issued on April 29, 2026, which barred INEC from recognising congresses conducted by committees constituted by the party’s caretaker leadership.
The appellate court held that, under the party’s structure, the responsibility for conducting state congresses rests with the duly elected state executive committees rather than caretaker committees appointed by the national leadership.
The judgment means that INEC is prohibited from recognising or participating in any state congresses organised by the David Mark-led caretaker committee while the court order remains in force.
The ruling is expected to have significant implications for the ongoing leadership dispute within the ADC, as the party continues efforts to resolve its internal crisis and reposition itself ahead of future political activities.
Legal analysts say the judgment reinforces the principle that political parties and public institutions must comply with existing court orders while internal disputes are being resolved through lawful processes.
The decision also highlights the judiciary’s continued role in settling disputes arising from political party administration and ensuring adherence to constitutional and legal procedures.
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