ADC: When Politics Conflicts with Law
By Blessing Omolola
As Nigeria gradually approaches the 2027 general elections, political parties are expected to strengthen their internal structures, promote unity, and prepare credible candidates for public office. Instead, leadership tussles and legal disputes continue to dominate the political landscape.
The recent Court of Appeal judgment restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising congresses organised by the David Mark-led caretaker committee of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is another reminder that democracy is built on institutions, not personalities.
At first glance, the judgment may appear to concern only the internal affairs of one political party. However, a closer examination reveals that it raises a much broader question: Can political expediency override constitutional procedures?
The answer should be no. Political parties are often described as the foundation of representative democracy. They recruit leaders, formulate policies, and present candidates for elections. If these same institutions fail to respect their own constitutions and established procedures, it becomes difficult to expect transparency and accountability when they eventually assume public office.
The Court of Appeal’s decision reinforces an important democratic principle: no individual or group is above the law. Regardless of the influence or political experience of those involved, leadership must derive its legitimacy from lawful processes rather than popular acceptance alone.
This judgment also sends a strong message to political parties across Nigeria. Internal democracy is not merely a legal requirement; it is a measure of institutional credibility. Leadership transitions, congresses, and decision-making processes must be guided by party constitutions rather than personal interests or political calculations.
Some may argue that judicial intervention in party affairs disrupts political activities. While that concern deserves consideration, courts become necessary when constitutional violations are alleged. Judicial oversight helps preserve democratic order by ensuring that organisations, including political parties, remain accountable to the rules they voluntarily established.
The decision also highlights the crucial role of INEC as an impartial electoral umpire. By restraining the commission from recognising congresses conducted outside the legal framework, the court reinforces the principle that electoral integrity begins long before citizens cast their votes. Credible elections are only possible when the processes leading to candidate emergence are themselves credible.
Yet, the ADC has sought to reassure its members and the public. In a statement, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, clarified that the judgment affects only ward, local government, and state congresses—not its primaries or candidates. He stressed that the party remains committed to offering Nigerians a credible alternative and has already filed an appeal at the Supreme Court. This response reflects the tension between judicial oversight and party autonomy: while the courts insist on constitutional compliance, party stewards emphasise continuity and stability.
As the ADC prepares to challenge the judgment, the legal process should be allowed to run its course. Regardless of the eventual outcome, the case presents an opportunity for political actors to prioritise dialogue, constitutional compliance, and institutional reform over prolonged litigation.
Nigeria’s democratic future depends not only on conducting elections but also on building political parties that practise the democratic values they preach. Respect for due process should never be sacrificed for political convenience.
Ultimately, strong democracies are sustained not by influential leaders alone, but by institutions that remain faithful to the rule of law. If Nigeria is to deepen its democratic culture ahead of 2027, political parties must understand that lasting legitimacy is earned through accountability, transparency, and unwavering respect for constitutional procedures.
Blessing Omolola Oladapo, 300 level Strategic Communication Student, Yakubu Gowon University, can be reached at [email protected]
