Court Orders Status Quo in ADC Leadership Crisis

On Tuesday, a Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice J.O. Abdulmalik, ordered the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to maintain the status quo while a leadership crisis lawsuit is pending.

The suit, initiated by Don Norman Obinna and six other plaintiffs, challenges the legitimacy of the caretaker interim national working committee, alleging it lacks constitutional authority. The plaintiffs, who represent state chairmen and executive committees, seek a declaration that the tenure of the state executive committee remains valid until a proper congress is conducted.

They have requested the court to restrain the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognizing the caretaker committee's participation in organizing congresses. This legal dispute reflects broader tensions within the ADC regarding party leadership and internal democracy.

The court has adjourned the matter to April 23 for a definitive hearing, directing the party to refrain from actions that could undermine the court's proceedings.