The leadership crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress (ADC) took a fresh turn as the Nafiu Bala-led faction directed the immediate suspension of the sale and purchase of Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms pending the determination of an ongoing suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The directive, announced by ADC Board of Trustees Secretary, Rufus Akanmi, followed resolutions reached during the party’s BoT meeting held in Abuja on Thursday. Akanmi warned aspirants and party members that anyone proceeding with the purchase of nomination forms despite the directive would be doing so at their own risk.
According to the faction, the move became necessary to preserve the integrity of the party and avoid further complications while the court determines the leadership dispute involving the David Mark-led camp.
The Bala faction also praised the Supreme Court’s April 30 judgment, describing it as a landmark ruling that strengthened constitutional democracy and internal party governance in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the leadership tussle suffered another setback on Friday after Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court adjourned the matter indefinitely following an application by the plaintiff seeking the transfer of the case to another judge.
Defence lawyers strongly opposed the request, accusing the plaintiff of “forum shopping” and attempting to frustrate the accelerated hearing earlier ordered by the appellate court and affirmed by the Supreme Court.
The ADC crisis continues to generate uncertainty ahead of the 2027 elections as rival factions battle for control of the party structure and nomination process.
