Rivers, Lagos, Imo, Zamfara ADC deny fresh suit against David Mark leadership 

The Rivers, Lagos, Imo, and Zamfara State chapters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have affirmed their support for the party’s national leadership under David Mark. The chapters denied involvement in a suit recently filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, describing the legal action as unauthorised.

Internal divisions surface over primaries
ADC chairmen from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) reportedly filed the suit against the party’s National Working Committee (NWC). The plaintiffs are challenging Mark’s leadership and alleging constitutional breaches regarding the appointment of committees for the April 2026 primaries.

The plaintiffs seek an injunction to halt the primary process. With the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) joined in the suit, observers have warned that the dispute could disrupt the ADC’s election preparations and deepen internal divisions.

State chapters distance themselves from litigation

In separate statements issued on Sunday, the Rivers, Imo, Lagos, and Zamfara chapters clarified that they were not consulted and did not approve the legal action. They maintained that the suit reflects the position of only a few individuals rather than the collective party structure.

James Okoroma, Imo state chairman and a professor, stated that neither the state executive nor its leadership is a party to the case. Okoroma, who should be referred to by his surname after first mention, warned against litigation that could create confusion and reaffirmed his chapter’s loyalty to the national leadership and internal dispute resolution mechanisms.

Commitment to party unity

Leader Samson, Rivers state chairman, emphasised his chapter’s commitment to internal democracy, the rule of law, and party unity. He cautioned members against presenting personal grievances as official party positions.

Kabiru Garba Gusau, Zamfara state chairman, aligned with the Rivers and Imo chapters, stating the suit does not represent the true position of his state branch. Similarly, George Ashiru, Lagos state chairman, backed the Mark-led leadership and insisted the state chapter should not be associated with the High Court suit against the NWC.

“While we respect the right of individuals to seek judicial interpretation, we emphasise that such actions must not be misrepresented as collective decisions,” Ashiru said. He added that the Lagos chapter remains focused on strengthening the party structure and advancing the interests of its members.