…As court rejects bid to stop Mark, Aregbesola as leaders
…Party slams ‘fake news’ after INEC recognition
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is pushing for a consensus arrangement to produce its presidential candidate for the 2027 election, even as the party grapples with leadership disputes, conflicting court interpretations, and accusations of fake news.
ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, told newsmen yesterday that the party will prioritise consensus in picking its 2027 flagbearer, only resorting to primaries if negotiations collapse.
Front-runners reportedly include former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi, and former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi — all of whom recently joined the ADC coalition.
Abdullahi said the party is focusing on rebuilding structures nationwide following the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) recognition of its new National Working Committee (NWC), led by former Senate President David Mark as National Chairman and ex-Osun State governor, Ra’uf Aregbesola as National Secretary.
However, controversy erupted after reports claimed a Federal High Court in Abuja had restrained Mark and Aregbesola from parading themselves as ADC leaders. Justice Emeka Nwite, ruling on a Motion ex-parte filed by Hon. Nafi’u Bala Gombe, declined to grant the restraining orders sought. Instead, the court ordered the defendants, including INEC, to be put on notice, and adjourned the case to Monday, September15 for hearing.
Despite this, some media outlets reported that the duo had been barred from acting as party leaders, prompting the ADC to accuse “desperate political jobbers” of spreading fake news. In a strongly-worded statement, Abdullahi dismissed the reports as false and urged journalists to verify facts before publication.
“The Honourable Court refused the application. David Mark and Ra’uf Aregbesola remain our recognised leaders, as acknowledged by INEC”, he said, stressing that the ruling only directed parties to appear and show cause.
The ADC insists it can now move ahead with ward congresses, membership registration, and nationwide mobilisation after months of paralysis.
As internal wrangling continues, the party’s fate – and its choice of a 2027 presidential candidate – may hinge not only on consensus politics but also on the outcome of its courtroom battles.
