The leadership crisis in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) will be addressed as the Supreme Court of Nigeria holds a substantive hearing on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.
The appeal (SC/CV/180/2026) directly pits the David Mark-led faction against Nafiu Bala Gombe’s camp in a legal battle that will determine the legitimate leadership of the party.
The apex court has already demonstrated its intent to bring the dispute to a close.
On April 14, 2026, a five-member panel led by Justice Mohammed Garba granted an accelerated hearing, struck out the application for a stay of execution of the Court of Appeal judgment, and ordered all parties to file and serve their processes without delay.
These steps firmly position the case for a definitive resolution.
At the core of the dispute is the Court of Appeal’s March 12, 2026 ruling and the question of leadership legitimacy, an issue that will now be conclusively settled.
The outcome will directly determine which faction is formally recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
With proceedings in lower courts already halted or adjourned pending this decision, the Supreme Court’s ruling will effectively end the leadership tussle and establish clear control of the ADC structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.
April 21 will produce a clear legal position on the ADC leadership, with significant implications for the party’s future direction and participation in 2027.
