Court Blocks INEC from Recognizing ADC Caretaker Congresses

On Wednesday, a Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Joyc Abdulmalik, ruled against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), preventing it from recognizing the caretaker congresses organized by the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The court also restrained former Senate President David Mark from interfering with the functions of the party's state executive committee.

The case was brought by Norman Obinna and six others, who argued that the caretaker body lacked constitutional authority to organize congresses. Justice Abdulmalik affirmed that the claims were valid, stating that the appointment of the congress committee was not recognized by the ADC constitution and was therefore invalid.

The court maintained that the tenure of the state executive committee remains valid and should not be disrupted. The ruling emphasized that internal party affairs are generally non-justiciable, but the court clarified its jurisdiction in this matter.

Additionally, the court nullified the process initiated by the plaintiff and set aside the appointment of the congress committee.