The wave of jubilation sweeping through the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following the Supreme Court’s latest ruling may be understandable—but it is, at best, premature.
Yes, the apex court delivered a decision in the dispute involving Nafiu Bala vs. David Mark. But a closer look at what was actually decided reveals a far more complicated reality—one that raises more questions than it answers.
What the Supreme Court Actually Said
Contrary to the triumphant tone adopted by some party loyalists, the Supreme Court did not affirm a clear leadership structure for the ADC.
Instead, it merely set aside the High Court’s earlier order that parties should maintain status quo ante bellum. In simple terms, the court removed a procedural restraint—it did not resolve the substantive leadership crisis.
Even more telling is the court’s directive that the parties return to the High Court for the continuation and conclusion of the case. That alone underscores one key fact: the dispute is far from over.
The Bigger Legal Problem Everyone Is Ignoring
While attention has been focused on the Bala vs. David Mark case, another critical legal development is being conveniently overlooked.
A separate High Court judgment—stemming from the case between Obinna Norman and David Mark—reportedly nullified the ADC National Convention that produced the current leadership.
If that judgment stands, it fundamentally alters the equation:
The convention that brought in the current leadership structure is legally void.
Any authority derived from that convention becomes questionable.
The position of National Chairman is, at best, uncertain.
This issue was not before the Supreme Court and was not addressed in today’s ruling. That means the legal cloud hanging over the party’s leadership remains intact.
INEC: The Ultimate Referee
In Nigeria’s political ecosystem, court judgments alone do not settle leadership disputes—interpretation and recognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are decisive.
Until INEC reviews:
The Supreme Court ruling, and
The subsisting High Court judgment nullifying the convention,
there can be no definitive answer as to who legitimately leads the ADC.
Celebration without INEC’s position is like declaring victory before the final whistle.
So Who Is the National Chairman?
That is the million-naira question—and right now, there is no clear answer.
If the convention stands nullified, then the emergence of David Mark as National Chairman lacks a valid foundation.
If the matter is still pending in court, then leadership remains sub judice.
Either way, certainty does not exist.
A Party at a Crossroads
What we are witnessing is not the end of a crisis—but a transition into a more complex phase.
The Supreme Court ruling has:
Reopened litigation at the High Court,
Left critical issues unresolved,
And exposed deeper structural cracks within the party.
Final Word: The Real Game Begins Now
The ADC may be eager to project unity and control, but optics cannot override legal realities.
Until:
The High Court concludes pending cases,
The validity of the National Convention is definitively settled, and
INEC recognizes a legitimate leadership,
any celebration is built on shaky ground.
For now, one truth stands above all:
the battle for the soul of the ADC is far from over.
By: Godwin Offor
