The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has secured a significant legal victory ahead of the 2027 general elections after a Federal High Court in Abuja upheld the leadership of former Senate President David Mark as National Chairman of the party.

Justice Musa Liman dismissed a suit filed by House of Representatives member Leke Abejide, who had challenged the emergence of Mark and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as the party’s National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively. The court ruled that the matter concerned the internal affairs of a political party and was therefore beyond judicial intervention.

The court further held that Abejide lacked the legal standing to challenge the appointments and failed to demonstrate that any of his rights had been violated. Justice Liman affirmed that the process leading to the emergence of the current ADC leadership complied with the party’s constitution, the Electoral Act, and other relevant legal provisions.

In addition, the court dismissed all reliefs sought by the plaintiff and awarded costs against him and his counsel. The judgment is widely seen as a boost for the ADC as it intensifies preparations for the 2027 elections amid ongoing efforts to strengthen its position as a major opposition platform.

The ruling provides further legal backing for the Mark-led leadership and is expected to reinforce stability within the party as it continues its political activities ahead of the next electoral cycle.