The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has described the Court of Appeal’s decision overturning the Federal High Court judgment ordering the deregistration of the party as a triumph for democracy, constitutionalism and the rule of law.
Mark said the appellate court’s ruling not only preserved the ADC’s legal status but also reaffirmed the judiciary’s role as the guardian of democratic values and constitutional rights.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his media adviser, Kola Ologbondiyan, shortly after the judgment, the former Senate President said the verdict had restored confidence in the nation’s judiciary and reinforced the belief that the courts remain the last hope of the common man.
“The verdict is a reassuring reminder that our judiciary can still rise above pressure and protect democracy, political pluralism and the constitutional rights of citizens and political parties,” Mark said.
He argued that the attempt to deregister the ADC represented a threat to Nigeria’s multiparty democracy and an infringement on the constitutional rights of citizens to freely associate and participate in the political process.
The ADC chairman commended the Justices of the Court of Appeal for what he described as their courage, impartiality and commitment to justice, noting that the ruling had further strengthened public confidence in the country’s democratic institutions.
Mark also urged party members, supporters and candidates nationwide to view the legal victory as an opportunity to intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Our attention now returns fully to building a stronger, more united and people-oriented political platform that will offer Nigerians a credible alternative in 2027. We must remain steadfast, disciplined and committed to the task ahead,” he stated.
He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to democracy, the rule of law and peaceful political participation, assuring Nigerians that the ADC would continue to champion policies aimed at promoting national unity, enhancing security, driving economic growth and ensuring justice for all.
Earlier on Tuesday, the Court of Appeal set aside the judgment of the Federal High Court directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the ADC, Action Alliance, Accord Party, Zenith Labour Party and Action Peoples Party.
The appellate court held that the lower court lacked jurisdiction to hear the suit because it was instituted by the National Forum of Former Legislators, which it ruled was not a juristic person with the legal capacity to file the action.
The court also faulted the trial court for proceeding with the case despite an existing order directing it to stay proceedings pending the determination of an appeal.
Consequently, the Court of Appeal declared the deregistration order a nullity and affirmed that the affected political parties remain duly registered under Nigerian law.
The judgment is widely seen as a significant affirmation of Nigeria’s multiparty democratic system, coming as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections.
