By Simeon OSAJIE
The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised serious allegations against certain members within its coalition, accusing them of attempting to unlawfully influence ongoing court proceedings in the party’s leadership dispute.
The NEC warned that such actions, if proven, represent a grave threat to Nigeria’s democratic foundations and the sanctity of its constitutional order.
In a formal statement, the committee claimed it had received credible intelligence suggesting that some coalition partners were engaging in covert efforts to manipulate judicial processes linked to the leadership crisis rocking the party.
The NEC stressed that any interference with the judiciary transcends internal party disagreements, describing it as a direct assault on constitutional democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria.
“Such actions are not only an attack on the ADC but also a direct assault on Nigeria’s Constitution, judicial independence, and the very foundation of our democracy,” the statement read.
The NEC called on the judiciary to remain resolute and resist all forms of external pressure, describing the courts as the ultimate guardian of justice, constitutionalism, and the rule of law.
“Let it be clear: Justice is non-negotiable. The judiciary is a sacred pillar of our constitutional order, safeguarding the rule of law and serving as the final refuge for citizens against injustice, impunity, and abuse of power,” the statement added.
The committee also emphasized that judicial decisions must be respected and faithfully implemented by all public institutions, stressing that court orders are legally binding and cannot be obeyed selectively.
The party specifically alleged that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has yet to discharge its constitutional responsibilities despite what it described as a valid and subsisting judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Referring to the judgment delivered on April 29 by Justice Abdulmalik, the NEC urged the electoral commission to comply without further delay.
“The ADC NEC demands that INEC immediately comply with all lawful court orders regarding our party’s leadership,” the statement said.
The committee maintained that its position is firmly anchored in the ADC Constitution, which clearly outlines the procedures for leadership succession, party administration, and the resolution of internal disputes.
It warned against any attempt to sidestep those constitutional provisions in pursuit of personal or political interests, insisting that neither political ambition nor expediency should take precedence over due process.
According to the NEC, any effort to seize control of the party through intimidation, coercion, or disregard for established constitutional procedures would ultimately fail.
“We will defend the party through every lawful and democratic means. We will neither retreat nor surrender. Justice must prevail,” the committee declared.
The NEC further appealed to judges handling matters related to the leadership dispute to remain impartial and steadfast in the discharge of their constitutional duties.
It also called on security agencies to ensure that no individual or group is allowed to disrupt judicial proceedings or threaten public peace in pursuit of unlawful political objectives.
The committee urged ADC members nationwide to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding while encouraging civil society organisations, members of the legal profession, pro-democracy groups, and all Nigerians to speak out against any attempt to undermine the judiciary or weaken the rule of law.
The statement concluded by reaffirming that the substantive National Executive Committee of the African Democratic Congress remains committed to upholding the Constitution, protecting the rule of law, and advancing the principles of justice, democracy, and due process.