ABUJA — The African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Tuesday proceeded with its national convention in Abuja despite a restraining order from the Federal High Court, ratifying party decisions that affirmed the emergence of David Mark as leader of its caretaker structure and approving major organisational changes.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik had earlier directed the party to maintain the status quo pending determination of a suit filed by seven aggrieved members challenging the convention and leadership arrangements. The court adjourned the matter to April 23 for hearing, while the Supreme Court of Nigeria fixed April 22 to hear an appeal related to the party’s leadership dispute.
Despite the legal developments, more than 1,500 delegates attended the convention, where party leaders defended the exercise as valid and warned against what they described as attempts to weaken opposition politics in the country.
Prominent political figures present included Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, Aminu ccc, Rotimi Amaechi, Rabiu Kwankwaso and Dino Melaye, alongside several former governors and party stakeholders.
Ahead of the event, the party alleged pressure from authorities in the Federal Capital Territory to revoke the licence of its convention venue, Rainbow Event Centre, claiming the move followed intervention linked to the office of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. The party insisted it had fulfilled all contractual obligations and would proceed as scheduled.
Speaking at the convention, Mark said the ADC would not succumb to intimidation, adding that the party was determined to defend democratic space and strengthen its coalition ahead of future elections. He urged opposition leaders to unite in addressing national challenges and promised people-centred governance if entrusted with power.
Delegates ratified resolutions from recent National Executive Committee meetings, including dissolution of the previous National Working Committee, installation of a caretaker leadership structure, suspension of zoning provisions, and relaxation of membership eligibility rules. The convention also endorsed congresses conducted nationwide and approved elements of the party’s policy framework and draft manifesto.
The gathering further approved the expulsion of some members, including Nafiu Bala Gombe and Rep. Leke Abejide, over alleged anti-party activities, signalling a broad restructuring of the party’s internal leadership and political direction.
ADC National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola defended the legality of the convention and criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for failing to attend and monitor the exercise, describing the absence as a breach of its statutory responsibility under the Electoral Act.
Meanwhile, a separate ruling by Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court declined a request by the Mark-led leadership to consolidate pending motions in a related suit, citing ongoing proceedings before the Supreme Court and the need to await its decision on jurisdictional issues tied to the dispute.
