Senator David Mark, the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, welcomed the Court of Appeal’s decision to overturn the Federal High Court’s decision to deregister the party as a significant win for democracy, constitutionalism, and the rule of law.
Mark stated that the appeal court’s decision not only ensured the ADC’s continued legal existence but also confirmed the judiciary’s role as the ultimate protector of democratic norms and constitutional rights.
The former Senate President made the remarks in a statement signed by his media adviser, Mr. Kola Ologbodiyan, shortly after the appellate court overturned the Federal High Court’s decision to deregister the ADC and four other political parties.
According to him, the judgement has restored public trust in the country’s justice and proven that the courts are still the final resort for the common man.
“The verdict is a reassuring reminder that our judiciary can still rise above pressure and protect democracy, political pluralism, and the constitutional rights of citizens and political parties,” Mark said.
He said that the attempt to deregister the ADC was an attack on Nigeria’s multiparty democratic system and an attempt to undermine citizens’ constitutional rights to freely associate and participate in the country’s political process.
The ADC chairman praised the Court of Appeal justices for their boldness, impartiality, and devotion to justice, noting that the decision had increased public trust in democratic institutions.
Mark urged party members, supporters, and candidates around the country to see the legal victory as an opportunity to increase grassroots mobilization ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Our attention now returns fully to building a stronger, more united, and people-oriented political platform that will offer Nigerians a credible alternative in 2027. We must remain steadfast, disciplined, and committed to the task ahead,” he stated.
He emphasized the party’s commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and peaceful political engagement, assuring Nigerians that the ADC would continue to advocate for policies that encourage national unity, improve security, stimulate economic growth, and provide equal justice for all.
The Court of Appeal had earlier on Tuesday overturned the Federal High Court’s decision to deregister the ADC, Action Alliance, Accord Party, Zenith Labour Party, and Action Peoples Party.
The appellate court concluded that the lower court lacked jurisdiction to hear the case because it was brought by the National Forum of Former Legislators, which it determined was not a juristic person with the legal competence to bring the action.
The court also chastised the trial court for proceeding with the case despite an earlier judgment directing it to stop proceedings awaiting the outcome of an appeal.
As a result, the decision for the deregistration of the concerned political parties was pronounced null and void, and they remained lawfully registered under Nigerian law.
The verdict is largely viewed as a landmark judicial pronouncement on the protection of Nigeria’s multiparty democratic system, coming as political parties ramp up preparations for the 2027 general elections.
