2027 Politics: ADC Holds Convention Despite Court Order, Accuses INEC of Bias

The African Democratic Congress (ADC), led by former Senate President David Mark, on Wednesday went ahead with its National Convention in Abuja in defiance of a court order and alleged political pressure.

The convention ratified party processes, including those that led to Mark’s emergence, even as legal battles over the party’s leadership intensified.

A Federal High Court headed by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik had earlier ordered the party to suspend the convention and maintain the status quo pending the hearing of a suit by aggrieved members. The matter was adjourned to April 23.

Separately, the Supreme Court fixed April 22 to hear an appeal concerning the leadership crisis.

Venue Controversy and Alleged Pressure

The ADC claimed its venue faced threats of licence revocation from the Federal Capital Development Authority and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.

Party spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi stated:

“After paying all the fees required… the owner… has come under pressure… that if he allows the ADC to use his facilities, his licence will be revoked.”

He maintained:

“We will hold our convention as planned.”

Democracy ‘At Risk’ — ADC Leadership

Speaking at the event, Mark stressed resilience:

“The ADC will not bow, will not be cowed, and we will not retreat.”

He added:

“We will not surrender because what is at stake is… the very survival of democracy in Nigeria.”

The gathering drew major political figures including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, Aminu Tambuwal, and Dino Melaye.

Major Resolutions Adopted

Delegates approved sweeping reforms, including dissolving the NWC, installing a caretaker committee, and expelling members such as Nafiu Bala Gombe and Leke Abejide.

They also endorsed constitutional amendments, relaxed membership rules, and approved nationwide congresses and the party’s draft manifesto.

INEC Under Fire

National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola accused the Independent National Electoral Commission of failing its legal duty to monitor the convention.

He said:

“The duty of attending… is mandatory… INEC’s failure… amounts to an abdication of responsibility.”

He further alleged bias, warning it could undermine confidence in the 2027 elections.

Court Cases Deepen Crisis

Another Federal High Court declined to proceed with a related case, citing a pending appeal at the Supreme Court.

The judge held that continuing proceedings while jurisdiction was being challenged could render any judgment invalid, opting to await the apex court’s decision.

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