Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja has barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising or participating in any state congresses organised by the disputed caretaker leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In a ruling delivered on the matter, the judge also restrained former Senate President Senator David Mark and other key party figures from interfering with the functions and lawful tenure of the elected state executives of the party.
The order followed an originating summons filed by Norman Obinna and six others, who sued on behalf of the ADC state chairpersons and their executive committees.
The plaintiffs challenged the legality of the caretaker or interim national leadership, arguing that the body lacks the constitutional authority under the party’s constitution to organise state congresses or appoint committees for that purpose.
