INEC Restores David Mark-Led ADC Leadership After Supreme Court Ruling

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reinstated Senator David Mark as the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), following a fresh legal development that overturned an earlier directive which had led to the removal of his faction’s details from the commission’s official records. The restoration marks a significant moment in the internal leadership dispute that has unsettled the party in recent weeks.

Updated records on the INEC portal on Thursday night confirmed that Mark has been re-listed as chairman, alongside former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary and other members of the National Working Committee. The decision follows a Supreme Court ruling that nullified a previous Court of Appeal order that had formed the basis for the earlier deregistration move.

Supreme Court Decision Changes Leadership Status Of ADC

The dispute over ADC leadership had intensified after INEC, acting on a Court of Appeal directive, removed the names of David Mark and other members of his camp from its official platform earlier in April. That action triggered protests from supporters of the Mark-led faction, who argued that the move was premature and unfair.

However, the Supreme Court, in its ruling delivered on Thursday, held that the directive to maintain the status quo ante bellum could no longer stand once the relevant proceedings had already been concluded. According to the apex court, continuing to rely on that order was legally unnecessary and unsustainable.

The court subsequently allowed the appeal filed by the Mark-led faction, thereby clearing the immediate obstacle that had prevented their recognition by INEC. This paved the way for the electoral body to restore the names of the affected officials on its records.

Key ADC Officials Reinstated

Beyond David Mark’s return as National Chairman, several senior ADC figures were also restored to their previous positions. Among them is former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, who is now again listed as National Secretary.

Other officials reinstated include Dr. Mani Ahmad as National Treasurer, Akibu Dalhatu as National Financial Secretary, and Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor as National Legal Adviser. Their reappearance on the INEC portal signals an official recognition of the leadership structure associated with the Mark-led camp.

Political observers note that the update may strengthen internal confidence within the ADC and provide temporary administrative clarity ahead of future political activities and coalition discussions.

Legal Battle Still Far From Over

Despite the restoration, the broader leadership contest within the ADC is not yet fully resolved. The Supreme Court also directed that the substantive suit filed by aggrieved party chieftain Nafiu Bala Gombe at the Federal High Court should proceed quickly and be determined on its merits.

This means that while the Mark-led leadership has regained official recognition for now, the final legal position regarding the party’s leadership structure remains subject to further judicial determination.

Members of the Mark faction have welcomed the latest development as a victory for due process, party stability, and constitutional order. Yet political analysts believe the next phase of the case at the Federal High Court could still shape the future direction of the ADC.