In a ruling regarded as a significant affirmation of internal party independence, the Federal High Court in Abuja has thrown out a lawsuit filed by Dumebi Kachikwu and four others against the African Democratic Congress.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ruled that the matters raised in the case relate to the party’s internal leadership and membership, issues the court lacks the authority to determine, and consequently declined jurisdiction.
The African Democratic Congress welcomed the decision, describing it as a victory for the rule of law and a strong message to Nigerians and political figures who have remained undecided to join the party’s ongoing membership registration exercise.
Reacting to the judgment, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, in a statement released on Friday in Abuja, urged citizens and political actors to take a clear stand.
“this moment should also serve as a call to action for citizens and leaders across the country who have been sitting on the fence. The time to act is now. Nigeria needs a strong, credible, and organized opposition, and the ADC remains committed to providing that platform.”
The party also called on the judiciary to remain neutral in protecting democratic principles, while reaffirming its determination to resist any attempts aimed at destabilising the party or interfering with its internal affairs.
Providing details of the judgment, the party stated: “In its ruling in Suit No: FHC/ABJ/ CS/1331/2025 (Hon. Dumebi Kachikwu & 4 Ors. vs. INEC & 5 Ors.), the court upheld the preliminary objections filed by counsel to the ADC; National Chairman of the ADC, Senator David Mark, and; Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, the National Secretary of the party. The court held that the issues raised in the suit relate to the leadership and membership of the party, matters which are non-justiciable, and accordingly declined jurisdiction.”
