The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has urged party members and supporters not to lose hope following a Federal High Court ruling that ordered the deregistration of the party. Speaking through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Kola Ologbondiyan, Mark described the judgment as an attack on Nigeria’s democracy and expressed confidence that higher courts would overturn it.
While hosting a delegation of ADC candidates in Abuja on Monday, Mark stated that the ruling by Justice Peter Lifu was issued illegally, as the Court of Appeal had previously ordered a stay of proceedings in the case. He emphasized that the judgment could not stand while the appellate court’s order remained in force, calling it a violation of due process.
“The ruling will be set aside because it fails the test of law and due process. Our democracy must be shielded from actions that threaten the constitutional rights of political parties and the choices available to Nigerians,” Mark said. He urged party faithful to stay calm and remain focused on the party’s goals, assuring them that the decision would be reversed through legal channels.
Mark further assured that the ADC would participate in the 2027 general elections. “I guarantee all our candidates, members, and supporters that this temporary hurdle will be overcome via the judicial process. We remain unshaken and trust in the rule of law,” he added. The ADC chairman reiterated the party’s dedication to strengthening democratic institutions and offering Nigerians a credible alternative in the upcoming polls.