National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, Senator David Mark, has described the Court of Appeal judgment quashing the earlier ruling seeking to deregister the party as a major victory for democracy and the rule of law.
Mark, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Kola Ologbondiyan, on Tuesday, said the verdict had vindicated the ADC and reaffirmed the judiciary’s role as a defender of Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.
The former Senate President said the attempt to deregister the party amounted to an assault on multiparty democracy and the constitutional right of Nigerians to freely associate and participate in the political process.
He said the judgment had also restored public confidence in the judiciary, describing the appellate court’s decision as evidence that the courts could still rise above pressure in the defence of democratic values.
Mark stated, “The verdict is a reassuring reminder that our judiciary can still rise above pressure and protect democracy, political pluralism and the constitutional rights of citizens and political parties.”
He commended the justices of the Court of Appeal for what he described as their courage, impartiality and fidelity to justice, saying the decision had strengthened confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
According to him, the ruling should not be treated merely as a legal victory for the ADC but as a broader triumph for constitutionalism and political pluralism.
Mark consequently called on ADC candidates, members and supporters nationwide to remain united, resolute and focused on the party’s political mission ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He urged party members to use the development as fresh motivation to intensify grassroots mobilisation and consolidate the ADC as a credible alternative to the major political parties.
“Our attention now returns fully to building a stronger, more united and people-oriented political platform that will offer Nigerians a credible alternative in 2027.
“We must remain steadfast, disciplined and committed to the task ahead,” he said.
The ADC chairman further reaffirmed the party’s commitment to peaceful political engagement, national unity, security, economic prosperity and justice.
He assured Nigerians that the party would continue to pursue policies aimed at providing purposeful leadership and good governance as it prepares for the 2027 elections.
