Photo: INEC Acknowledges David Mark, Aregbesola As ADC Leaders

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has updated its official records, formally recognising David Mark, a former Senate President, as the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The commission also acknowledged Rauf Aregbesola as the party’s National Secretary, alongside listing Dr. Mani Ibrahim Ahmed as National Treasurer and Akibu Dalhatu as National Financial Secretary.

According to credible media reports, the update on INEC’s website followed a recent ruling by the Supreme Court of Nigeria which addressed the lingering leadership dispute within the ADC. The development comes after a prolonged internal crisis that had led the electoral body to withhold recognition of certain party officials due to conflicting court judgments and ongoing litigation.

Earlier, INEC had removed the names of Mark and Aregbesola from its portal, citing a decision by the Court of Appeal and maintaining a neutral stance by preserving the status quo pending final judicial determination. The commission had insisted it would not recognise any faction until the legal uncertainties were resolved.

However, the Supreme Court, in a unanimous judgment delivered by a five-member panel led by Justice Mohammed Lawal Garba, nullified the directive that enforced the status quo. The apex court held that the Court of Appeal exceeded its jurisdiction by issuing such an order after dismissing the appeal before it, describing the action as unnecessary and improper.

The court further ruled partially in favour of David Mark while dismissing aspects of the appeal challenging an earlier ex parte order by a Federal High Court. It subsequently directed all factions within the party to return to the trial court for the continuation of proceedings on the substantive matter.