The factional National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe, has said that the Federal High Court verdict sacking the Senator David Mark-led National Working Committee affirms the rule of law and constitutional supremacy in political parties.
In a statement on the judgment in Suit Number. FHC/ABJ/CS/1819/2025, Gombe said the court rightly subjected the leadership question to constitutional and statutory scrutiny rather than political expediency.
Justice Peter Lifu of a Federal High Court, Abuja, had on Thursday nullified the Mark-led caretaker committee and invalidated all actions taken by it.
Gombe described the matter as politically sensitive and nationally significant, noting that it raised questions of party autonomy, internal democracy, constitutional compliance and the regulatory role of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.
According to him, the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), particularly Sections 1, 6, 228 and 223(1)(2), requires that affairs of political parties be conducted lawfully and in conformity with democratic principles and their own constitutions.
He maintained that the court examined whether the internal processes of the ADC complied with the party’s constitution and the requirements of the Electoral Act, and rightly held that those requirements are mandatory.
“Political parties are not above their own constitutions, and the Electoral Act is not a mere suggestion. Where a party’s constitution prescribes a procedure for succession and leadership, that procedure must be obeyed,” he added.
He said the judgment also underscores that no man is above the law, that party constitutions are binding, that the Electoral Act must be obeyed, and that leadership must emerge through lawful process, not through imposition.
He stated that the decision restores public confidence that a judge can still decide on the law and the facts alone, uninfluenced by political pressure, noise or inducement, and that courts remain a place where the weak, the unpopular and the minority can still find justice.
He also said the judgment is a reminder that the judiciary’s authority is derived from the Constitution and the trust of the people, noting that it will strengthen public confidence in the courts and the principle that justice must not only be done but must manifestly and undoubtedly be seen to be done.
He commended his legal team for their diligence, courage and fidelity to the law, and thanked supporters, party faithful and well-meaning Nigerians for their solidarity and prayers throughout the proceedings.