The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has urged party members, supporters, and candidates not to lose hope following a Federal High Court judgment that purportedly ordered the deregistration of the party and several other political parties.
Mark gave the assurance on Monday in Abuja while receiving a delegation of ADC candidates, describing the ruling delivered by Justice Peter Lifu as “an arrow fired at the heart of Nigeria’s democracy.”
Kola Ologbondiyan, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the ADC National Chairman, in a statement, said Senator David Mark expressed confidence that the judgment would be overturned on appeal, arguing that it failed to meet the requirements of due process and the rule of law.
According to the party’s National Chairman, the Court of Appeal had earlier issued a stay of proceedings in the matter and fixed 27 October 2027 for further hearing, raising questions over the validity of the lower court’s decision while the appellate court’s order remained in force.
“The judgment cannot stand. It will be set aside because it does not pass the test of law and due process. Our democracy must be protected from actions that seek to undermine the constitutional rights of political parties and the choices available to Nigerians,” Mark stated.
The former Senate President called on ADC supporters nationwide to remain calm and focused, assuring them that the party would remain a key participant in the 2027 general elections.
“The ADC will be on the ballot in 2027. I assure all our candidates, members, and supporters that this temporary setback will be overcome through the judicial process. We remain resolute and confident in the rule of law,” he said.
Mark also reaffirmed the party’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and providing Nigerians with a credible political alternative ahead of the next general elections.
