Nigeria’s Court of Appeal (Nigeria) has dismissed an appeal filed by former Senate President David Mark in a leadership dispute within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), delivering a setback to his legal challenge over the party’s internal structure.
In its ruling, the appellate court upheld the earlier decision of a lower court, effectively rejecting Mark’s attempt to overturn the outcome of the dispute concerning the leadership and control of the opposition party. The court ruled that the appeal lacked sufficient merit to proceed.
The case stems from disagreements among members of the ADC regarding the party’s leadership arrangements and decision-making authority. Mark, who recently became involved in the party’s affairs after years in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), had sought judicial intervention to challenge the leadership structure recognized by the party.
Legal analysts say the ruling reinforces the judiciary’s position that internal party disputes should primarily be resolved within party structures unless there is clear evidence of constitutional violations.
The decision is expected to influence the ongoing power dynamics within the ADC as the party seeks to strengthen its position ahead of future political contests in Nigeria.
With the appeal dismissed, the current leadership arrangement of the ADC is likely to remain in place, although party insiders suggest further political negotiations could still occur behind the scenes to address lingering tensions within the organization.
