The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has welcomed the judgment of the Federal High Court striking out a suit challenging its leadership for lack of jurisdiction.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party described the ruling as a reaffirmation of the legitimacy of its current leadership.
According to the ADC, the judgment reinforces its position that issues relating to party leadership are internal affairs and are therefore not justiciable under the provisions of the Electoral Act.
The party maintained that the emergence of its current leadership, headed by Sen. David Mark, complied fully with the ADC Constitution and relevant Nigerian laws.
“This judgment affirms our clear position that the issue of leadership remains an internal affair of the party and is therefore not justiciable,” the statement read.
The ADC also described the ruling as a victory for Nigeria’s multiparty democracy, expressing optimism that it would bring an end to what it called attempts to distract and destabilise the opposition through legal challenges.
The party said the country’s pressing challenges, including worsening insecurity, rising cost of living, unemployment and shrinking economic opportunities, required practical alternatives from the opposition rather than prolonged litigation.
Despite the court’s decision, the ADC said it would remain vigilant, alleging that anti-democratic forces were still pursuing actions capable of undermining democratic governance and opposition politics.
The party commended the trial judge for what it described as a courageous decision, particularly the award of costs against the plaintiff and the plaintiff’s legal team, saying the ruling would discourage frivolous lawsuits.
It also expressed appreciation to its members, supporters and Nigerians for their continued support and urged them to remain united and committed to advancing the party’s democratic ideals.
Source: (NAN)
