The on Thursday delivered a landmark judgment in the leadership crisis rocking the opposition (ADC), nullifying a controversial directive issued by the .
In a unanimous decision by a five-member panel led by , the apex court ruled that the appellate court acted outside its jurisdiction after it had already dismissed the appeal before it. The justices consequently set aside the order directing all parties to maintain the status quo.
However, the court stopped short of declaring a legitimate leader of the ADC, instead directing all parties to return to the trial court for continuation of the case.
Mixed Reactions Trail Judgment
The ruling has drawn varied reactions from political stakeholders within and outside the party. Mansur Umar Kurugu, spokesperson II of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, described the decision as a victory for Nigeria’s judicial integrity.
“This gives us more confidence in our judicial system,” Kurugu said, adding that the judgment demonstrates that some institutions remain committed to fairness and justice.
He also criticised the (INEC), alleging bias and accusing its leadership of undermining opposition parties.
In contrast, ADC chieftain argued that the ruling does not favour any faction within the party.
“Today, the Supreme Court displayed King Solomon’s wisdom by refusing to be used as a tool of destabilisation,” he said, insisting that neither side can claim outright victory.
Implications for 2027 Elections
Political observers say the judgment has revived momentum within the ADC but leaves unresolved questions about its leadership structure.
Adnan Mukhtar, a former Kano State House of Assembly aspirant and ADC member, expressed optimism, describing the ruling as a positive development for Nigeria’s democracy.
According to him, the decision allows the party to resume key political activities, including primaries and the sale of nomination forms ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He added that the judiciary has once again proven to be the “last hope of the common man,” boosting confidence among opposition supporters.
Despite this optimism, analysts caution that the absence of a definitive leadership ruling may slow coalition-building efforts, as potential partners could remain wary of internal divisions.
Fresh Claims Deepen Crisis
Meanwhile, has dismissed claims of victory by rival groups, accusing the faction linked to of spreading propaganda.
“How does dismissing a case mean victory? I am the authentic ADC leader in Nigeria,” Bala said, vowing to continue the legal battle.
He further alleged that members of the opposing faction are not genuine party members but part of a broader political coalition.
Several prominent ADC figures, including and , have reacted with cautious optimism, noting that while the judgment is encouraging, the legal dispute remains unresolved.
Case Continues at Trial Court
With the Supreme Court’s directive, the matter now returns to the for continuation of proceedings.
While the ruling has restored some confidence among party supporters and opposition figures, the ADC’s path to unity—and its ability to position itself as a formidable challenger in 2027—will likely depend on the outcome of the ongoing trial.
