Constitutional lawyer Fred Nzeako has dismissed concerns that the Supreme Court’s decision to send the African Democratic Congress (ADC) back to the Federal High Court represents a failure for the party. In a television interview, he clarified that the ruling does not undermine the party’s current leadership structure.
The Supreme Court recently nullified a Court of Appeal order that had prevented the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognizing Senator David Mark as ADC’s National Chairman. The apex court criticized the appellate court for issuing what it called an improper and unnecessary preservative order, noting that no party had requested such a measure.
Despite speculation that the judgment could stall ADC’s preparations for the 2027 elections, Nzeako argued the opposite. He emphasized that the party’s leadership, headed by David Mark, remains intact since no court has invalidated their election by the National Executive Committee (NEC).
Nzeako also addressed concerns about INEC’s role, stating that the commission must engage with the Mark-led executive. He reminded INEC that the law requires a 21-day notice for conventions, which the party has provided, and that non-observance by INEC does not nullify the convention’s validity.
The lawyer further dismissed the notion that the party register is essential for general elections, explaining that the register is only relevant for direct primaries. He criticized the National Assembly for mandating direct primaries or consensus, labeling this provision as a deliberate attempt to hinder opposition parties. He argued that indirect primaries should remain a valid option.