The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, ADC , Senator David Mark has described the Thursday’s court judgement affirming his leadership of the party as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
Mark, in statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity , Kola Ologondiyan said the ruling, which upheld the legitimacy of the party’s leadership, vindicated the ADC’s long-standing commitment to multi-party democracy, the rule of law, and the constitutional rights of Nigerians to freely associate and participate in the political process.
According to him, the judgment reinforces the principle that democracy can only flourish when political parties operate without intimidation, undue interference, or attempts to weaken legitimate opposition voices.
“From the outset, we had maintained that democracy can only thrive when political parties operate without intimidation, undue interference, or attempts to undermine legitimate opposition,” Mark stated.
“Today’s judgment has reaffirmed that no individual or institution is above the law and that the judiciary remains the ultimate guardian of our constitutional order.”
The former Senate President commended the judiciary for what he described as its courage, impartiality, and unwavering commitment to justice, noting that the verdict represents a triumph of truth and the democratic aspirations of the Nigerian people.
He reaffirmed the ADC’s dedication to democratic principles, constitutionalism, and the rule of law, stressing that the party remains committed to providing purposeful leadership as a credible opposition force at a critical moment in Nigeria’s history.
Mark maintained that the court victory extends beyond the interests of the ADC, describing it as a win for all Nigerians who believe in a vibrant political system.
“This is not just a victory for our party; it is a victory for democracy, justice, and every Nigerian who believes in a vibrant political system where ideas compete freely and the will of the people ultimately prevails,” he said.
He further urged party members, supporters, and other well-meaning Nigerians to remain united, focused, and committed to building a stronger, more inclusive, and prosperous nation through peaceful democratic participation.
Justice Musa Liman had in a judgement on Thursday dismissed the suit for lacking merit. Abejide had challenged Mark and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola as ADC National Chairman and National Secretary.
The judge held that the court lacked jurisdiction to interfere in the internal affairs of the ADC, describing the suit as non-justiciable.
He also ruled that Abejide lacked the locus standi to institute the suit, having failed to show that his rights were violated by the emergence of the Mark-led leadership. The court further held that Abejide did not explore the party’s internal dispute resolution mechanism.
On the substantive issues, the court ruled in favour of the defendants, holding that the transfer of leadership from Ralph Nwosu to Mark did not breach the ADC Constitution or the Electoral Act.
