The leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress is set to take a decisive turn as the Supreme Court has scheduled April 14, 2026, to hear an appeal filed by David Mark over the party’s disputed leadership.
The appeal challenges a March 12 ruling of the Court of Appeal, which has fueled the ongoing tussle between Mark and Nafiu Bala.
Through the suit, Mark is seeking an order to halt the enforcement of the judgment pending the final determination of his appeal.
Court documents indicate that hearing notices were issued to all parties involved, signaling the apex court’s readiness to address the matter.
Represented by his counsel, Realwan Okpanachi, Mark is also asking the court to restrain the Independent National Electoral Commission from recognizing or implementing any changes to the party’s leadership structure outside his faction until the case is resolved.
Additionally, he is requesting the suspension of proceedings in a related case currently before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The respondents listed in the appeal include Bala, the ADC, Rauf Aregbesola (National Secretary), INEC, and Ralph Nwosu.
Meanwhile, the Federal High Court, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite, has also fixed the same date—April 14—to hear a separate suit filed by Bala, contesting Mark’s claim to the party’s leadership.
With both cases slated for the same day, legal analysts suggest the lower court may defer proceedings in recognition of the Supreme Court’s overriding authority.
