The Forum of ADC Governorship Candidates has warned that the Federal High Court judgment nullifying the Senator David Mark-led leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) could undermine opposition politics and threaten Nigeria’s multiparty democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The candidates said the November 5 ruling by Justice Peter Lifu had created uncertainty for thousands of party members, supporters and aspirants, raising concerns about their participation in the next electoral cycle.
Speaking on behalf of the forum in Abuja, the ADC governorship candidate in Kwara State, Hon. Zakari Mohammed, questioned the conflicting court decisions on the party’s leadership dispute.
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He noted that an earlier ruling by Justice Musa Liman had recognised the David Mark-led leadership, and called on appellate courts to urgently resolve the legal issues.
Mohammed said the conflicting decisions could weaken public confidence in the judiciary and create uncertainty within the party.
The forum also accused unnamed political forces of attempting to weaken opposition parties, warning that the development could push Nigeria towards a one-party state.
Mohammed challenged President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress to allow political competition, insisting that Nigerians must be free to choose their leaders.
“Political power must be won through democratic competition,” he said.
The candidates called on the United Nations, African Union, ECOWAS, the Commonwealth and other democratic institutions to monitor Nigeria’s political environment ahead of the 2027 elections.
They also demanded a judicial review of the judgment, protection for ADC candidates and members, an independent National Electoral Commission and a level playing field for all political parties.
The forum urged party supporters to remain calm and law-abiding while the ADC pursues available legal remedies.
Mohammed warned that the 2027 election must not become a predetermined contest, stressing that Nigeria must remain a multiparty democracy.
He said the country belonged to its citizens and should not become “a political monarchy”.
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