The Supreme Court of Nigeria has set aside a ruling by the Court of Appeal which directed parties involved in the leadership crisis within the African Democratic Party (ADC) to maintain the status quo ante bellum.
The appellate court, sitting as a three-member panel, had earlier dismissed an appeal filed by David Mark, who challenged the jurisdiction of Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, to hear a suit brought by Nafiu Gombe over the party’s leadership.
In its ruling, the Court of Appeal held that Mark’s appeal was premature and filed without obtaining leave from the trial court.
It subsequently ordered that the case be returned to the lower court for accelerated hearing and directed all parties to maintain the existing situation pending determination.
Following that directive, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) moved to de-recognise the leadership faction led by Mark until the courts determine the authentic leadership of the party.
Dissatisfied with the outcome, Mark approached the Supreme Court, challenging both the appellate court’s decision and the order enforcing the status quo.
With the latest ruling by the apex court, the legal battle over the ADC leadership is expected to take a new turn as proceedings continue at the lower court.
