The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has congratulated its members across the country following the Supreme Court’s ruling affirming David Mark as national chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as national secretary. 

The apex court had ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reinstate ADC to the ballot ahead of the 2027 election.

In a statement on Thursday, the party’s spokesman, Bolaji Abdullahi, described the judgment as a clear and unequivocal affirmation of the party’s leadership and structure under Mark and Aregbesola.

Mr Abdullahi said, “It lays to rest all contrived disputes and manufactured uncertainties, and reinforces the principle that the rule of law, not political manipulation, must guide the affairs of our democracy.

He commended the five-man panel of the Supreme Court, whose unanimous judgment has today done great credit to the judiciary in our country and our political system.

He, however, welcomed the judgment, stressing that they do not mistake it for the end of the struggle and the events leading up to this moment have exposed a troubling pattern of interference, bad faith, and attempts to weaken opposition voices in Nigeria. 

He stressed that the party remained resolute in its mission to provide Nigerians with a credible alternative focused on tackling insecurity, reducing the cost of living, and creating jobs

“We therefore urge all our members, supporters, and democratic stakeholders across the country to remain vigilant. Democracy is not defended in a single courtroom victory; it is sustained through constant vigilance, active participation, and the courage to resist any attempt to undermine the will of the people,” he said. 

He noted that what has been attempted once can be attempted again; hence, the party must not let its guard down.

He further reiterated the party’s longstanding position calling for the resignation of the INEC chairman, citing concerns over the integrity and neutrality of the office.

“Whichever it is, the outcome is the same: the integrity and neutrality required of the office have been compromised. Nigeria’s democracy cannot afford an electoral umpire whose actions raise legitimate questions about impartiality,” he said

Mr Abdullahi also urged INEC to restore recognition of the Mark-led leadership on its official platforms and communication channels.

He added that the party would continue to stand firm and defend democracy, justice, and the Nigerian people.