ADC sues INEC, demands recognition of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola

The  African Democratic Congress (ADC) has filed a lawsuit at a Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to restore the names of Senator David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as the party’s National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively. 

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The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1819/2025, follows the removal of their names and other members of the National Working Committee from INEC’s official portal on April 1.

In a motion filed by counsel Sulaiman Usman, SAN, the plaintiff is requesting a mandatory injunction to reinstate the officials to their positions as they stood prior to the current leadership dispute.

The application seeks a court order directing INEC to restore the names of Senator David Mark, Rauf Aregbesola, and other committee members to its portal, while also asking the court to set aside INEC’s refusal to monitor the party’s congresses or convention.

Additionally, the suit seeks an injunction preventing the commission from recognizing competing claims or tampering with leadership records pending the final determination of the matter.

The legal battle stems from a March 12 Court of Appeal judgment regarding a leadership dispute initiated by former Deputy National Chairman, Nafiu Gombe. While the appellate court directed parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum, the interpretation of that order has led to a significant split within the party.

The leadership crisis has divided the ADC into two prominent camps. The David Mark camp, supported by party founder Ralph Nwosu, insists on proceeding with the national convention slated for April 14. Nwosu stated that the party has followed all legal requirements and will not allow INEC’s de-recognition to derail their preparations for the 2027 elections.

Meanwhile, the Nafiu Gombe camp held a counter-protest at INEC headquarters in Abuja, demanding that Gombe be recognized as the National Chairman. Gombe has urged INEC to uphold his interpretation of the court order, accusing rival actors of attempting to hijack the party.

As the legal proceedings continue, the Professor Joash Amupitan-led INEC faces increasing pressure from Civil Society Organizations and party chieftains who allege that the commission’s current stance undermines the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.