The Supreme Court of Nigeria has fixed April 14 for the hearing of an appeal filed by David Mark, national chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in the ongoing leadership dispute with Nafiu Bala.
The appeal, marked SC/CV/180/2026, challenges a judgment of the Court of Appeal of Nigeria delivered on March 12, which has contributed to the current leadership crisis within the party. Mark is seeking an order to stay the execution of that ruling pending the final determination of his appeal.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), hearing notices were issued to all parties through the Supreme Court’s litigation department on Friday.
Through his counsel, Realwan Okpanachi, Mark is also asking the apex court to restrain the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from making any changes to the party’s leadership structure as currently constituted under his leadership, pending the outcome of the appeal.
He further requested that proceedings in a related case, suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1819/2025, before the Federal High Court in Abuja be halted.
The respondents in the appeal include Bala, the ADC, Rauf Aregbesola (National Secretary), INEC, and Ralph Nwosu.
Meanwhile, the Federal High Court, presided over by Emeka Nwite, has also fixed April 14 to hear Bala’s suit challenging Mark’s leadership of the party.
With both matters scheduled for the same day, legal observers believe the lower court may adjourn or suspend proceedings in deference to the Supreme Court, in line with the hierarchy of courts.
The case represents a critical turning point in the internal crisis within the ADC, as rival factions seek judicial validation of their leadership claims ahead of the 2027 general elections.
What you should know
The ADC leadership dispute has escalated to Nigeria’s highest court, highlighting deep divisions within the party.
The Supreme Court’s decision could determine the legitimate leadership structure and shape the party’s future ahead of the 2027 elections. With parallel cases at both the Supreme Court and Federal High Court, legal procedures and court hierarchy will play a key role in how the matter unfolds.
The outcome is expected to significantly impact the ADC’s internal stability and its ability to compete effectively in upcoming political contests.
