A High Court has restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising any state congresses conducted by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), pending the determination of a substantive suit before it.
The court also barred former Senate President, David Mark, and other party stakeholders from interfering with the functions, tenure, and responsibilities of elected state executives of the party.
Justice Abdulmalik issued the orders following an originating summons filed by Norman Obinna and six others, acting on behalf of ADC state chairpersons and executive committees across the country.
In the suit, the plaintiffs challenged moves to convene or validate state congresses that could alter the leadership structure of the party at the state level, arguing that such actions would undermine the authority of duly elected executives.
The court held that, pending the hearing and final determination of the matter, INEC must refrain from recognising or giving effect to any such congresses.
Justice Abdulmalik further directed that no party leader, including David Mark and others named in the suit, should interfere in any way with the administration or operations of the current state executive committees.
The ruling is seen as a significant development in the internal leadership dispute within the ADC, as it temporarily preserves the status quo and places legal restrictions on attempts to restructure the party’s state leadership pending judicial resolution.
Political observers say the decision could have wider implications for the party’s organisational stability ahead of future electoral activities.
The matter has been adjourned for further proceedings.
By Chief Edet Isong