Court Ruling Affirms Party Autonomy, Says ADC diaspora

Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the United States, Dr Safiyanu Saidu, has described a recent court ruling in Katsina State on the party’s leadership dispute as a victory for democracy and internal party discipline.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the ADC has been facing a leadership crisis involving factions within its executive.

A High Court in the Dutsin-Ma Judicial Division of Katsina State struck out a suit challenging the party’s leadership, ruling that the matter is an internal affair beyond the court’s jurisdiction.

The judgment, delivered on April 14 by Justice A.K. Tukur, also vacated an earlier ex parte interim order and dismissed the case for want of jurisdiction.

The suit was filed by Alhaji Musa Wamba, who claimed to be the ADC state chairman in Katsina, against Mr Lawan Batagarawa, Mr Babangida Mahuta, the ADC, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The court held that disputes relating to party leadership and structure are best resolved through internal mechanisms rather than judicial intervention.

Reacting, Ali said the ruling reaffirmed the sanctity of party processes and democratic principles.

“This ruling is a clear victory for democracy and the rule of law. It reinforces the principle that political parties must resolve their internal issues through constitutional means.

“We commend the judiciary for its restraint and respect for party autonomy. This will encourage political stability and deepen democratic practice in Nigeria,” he said.

Ali urged members to embrace dialogue and lawful channels in resolving disputes.

“This decision will strengthen unity and discipline within the party,” he added.

He called on party members to rally behind the recognised leadership to move the party forward. (NAN)