2027: Kwankwasiyya Raises Alarm Over Court Ruling on ADC

The Kwankwasiyya Movement has expressed concern over a Federal High Court judgment invalidating the David Mark-led caretaker leadership of the African Democratic Congress, warning that the development could undermine opposition parties’ participation in the 2027 general elections.

The movement urged the judiciary to uphold its independence and ensure fairness in political disputes, while calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission to remain neutral in handling the ADC leadership crisis.

The Federal High Court judgment, delivered on Thursday, November 5, 2026, invalidated the Mark-led caretaker leadership and decisions taken under its authority, including the process that produced former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.

The spokesperson for the movement, Dr Habibu Mohammed, raised the concerns in a statement issued on Thursday, warning that prolonged legal battles over opposition party leadership and candidate nominations could weaken Nigeria’s democratic space.

He acknowledged the constitutional powers of the judiciary to adjudicate disputes but said the uncertainty created by persistent litigation could affect the ability of opposition parties to organise and prepare for the elections.

The statement read, “Nigeria’s democracy must be built on political pluralism, institutional independence, equal treatment before the law and the protection of citizens’ rights to associate and participate in the electoral process.”

The movement called on the Federal Government to demonstrate its commitment to political pluralism and avoid actions that could undermine opposition parties.

It also urged INEC to ensure that no political faction received preferential treatment, insisting that the commission must be guided by the law and valid court orders.

While acknowledging the ADC’s intention to appeal the judgment, Kwankwasiyya urged all parties to pursue available legal remedies peacefully and without political interference.

It warned that the leadership crisis should not result in the disenfranchisement of party members, aspirants and Nigerians seeking a competitive electoral process in 2027.

“We are not asking the courts to favour any political party or individual. We are asking that justice be done fairly, consistently and without fear or favour,” the statement added.