INEC restores David Mark-Led ADC leadership after Supreme court ruling

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reinstated the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), recognising David Mark as National Chairman following a decisive ruling by the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

The update, reflected on INEC’s official portal on Thursday night, also lists Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary, alongside other members of the party’s National Working Committee.

The move comes after weeks of legal uncertainty that saw the electoral body remove the Mark-led leadership from its records in compliance with an earlier Court of Appeal directive.

Court ruling

The Supreme Court voided the appellate court’s order that had directed parties to maintain the status quo, ruling that such a directive could not continue after the substantive issues had been determined.

The apex court described the earlier order as “legally unsustainable” and allowed the appeal filed by the Mark-led faction.

It also directed that the substantive suit filed by aggrieved party chieftain Nafiu Bala Gombe at the Federal High Court be heard expeditiously.

Leadership structure reinstated

With the update, INEC’s records now reflect the full leadership structure of the ADC under Mark, including:

• Dr. Mani Ahmad as National Treasurer
• Akibu Dalhatu as National Financial Secretary
• Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor as National Legal Adviser

The restoration effectively reverses INEC’s earlier derecognition, which had triggered protests from the party and opposition figures.

Mixed reactions, legal battle continues

The Mark-led faction has welcomed the development as a victory for due process and internal party stability.

However, the broader leadership dispute within the ADC remains unresolved, as the substantive case challenging the legitimacy of the party’s leadership is still pending before the Federal High Court.

Political observers say while the Supreme Court ruling removes an immediate obstacle, the final outcome of the ongoing litigation could still reshape the party’s structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.