The Supreme Court of Nigeria delivered two landmark judgments on April 30, 2026, that have reshaped the opposition landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections. The rulings came as a mixed bag — relief for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and a major blow to a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
ADC: David Mark’s Leadership Restored
In a unanimous judgment delivered by a five-member panel led by Justice Mohammed Lawal Garba, the Supreme Court set aside the “status quo ante bellum” order issued by the Court of Appeal on March 12, 2026.
The apex court described the appellate court’s preservative order as “unnecessary, unwarranted, and improper.”
This means Senator David Mark is restored as National Chairman of the ADC, while Rauf Aregbesola remains National Secretary. INEC has since restored their names on its portal.
However, the court ordered that the substantive case be returned to the Federal High Court for accelerated hearing, meaning the legal battle is not entirely over.
PDP: Ibadan Convention Nullified
In a split decision of three-to-two, the Supreme Court voided the PDP’s Ibadan National Convention held in November 2025, which had produced Tanimu Turaki as national chairman.
The court ruled that the convention was conducted in blatant disobedience of a valid court order restraining it.
The judgment effectively invalidates all structures, decisions, and actions associated with the affected leadership factions, including the Abuja Convention held on March 29, 2026.
What Happens Next
ADC: David Mark can now lead the party and proceed with preparations for 2027 — including primaries and sale of nomination forms. However, insiders warn that fresh legal hurdles could emerge.
PDP: The Board of Trustees (BoT) has stepped in to stabilize the party, with key leaders — including Governors Seyi Makinde, Bala Mohammed, and other stakeholders — holding emergency meetings.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged party faithful to remain resilient, warning that the legal victory may only mark the beginning of a tougher political road ahead.
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