A public affairs commentator, Mahdi Shehu, has cautioned the African Democratic Congress (ADC) against celebrating too soon after its recent victory at the Supreme Court of Nigeria, warning that the ruling could still pose risks for the party.
In a post shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Shehu described the judgment as “pregnant with risks,” noting that while the party may have reasons to celebrate, the legal and political battle is far from over.
“ADC, its members and sympathisers may have reason to celebrate today’s Supreme Court judgment,” he wrote. “But looking closer at the stakes, the judgment is pregnant and a trap set for the ADC to relax.”
His comments come at a time when the ADC is dealing with internal disputes over leadership and party structure, which have led to court cases and competing claims within the party. Such disputes are common in Nigeria’s political landscape, especially as parties prepare for future elections.
Shehu explained that the recent Supreme Court decision does not represent a final resolution of the case. According to him, the ruling was based on an interlocutory appeal, which deals with preliminary issues rather than the main case.
Shehu stressed that the substantive case is still before the Federal High Court, which will continue to hear arguments and eventually deliver a final judgment.
“The legal battle is not over,” he said. “The Federal High Court will still determine the substantive matter.”
He further warned that whichever faction loses at the Federal High Court is likely to appeal the decision, which could lead the case back to higher courts, including the Court of Appeal Nigeria and possibly the Supreme Court again.
According to Shehu, this process could take time and may affect the party’s readiness for upcoming elections.
Nigeria’s electoral process is guided by strict timelines set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). These timelines, established under the Electoral Act, outline deadlines for party primaries, submission of candidates’ names, and other key activities.
Shehu pointed out that these timelines are not flexible and must be followed by all political parties. He warned that ongoing legal battles could interfere with the ADC’s ability to meet these deadlines.
“INEC timetable is time-bound, strict and irreversible because it is guided by the provisions of the Electoral Act,” he said.
He added that even if the ADC eventually wins the case after a long legal process, the victory might come too late to have any meaningful impact on the party’s participation in elections.
“From the strict INEC timetable and the likelihood of the matter not being concluded up to the Supreme Court, even if ADC succeeds, it would have a success in futility,” he stated.
This concern reflects a broader issue in Nigerian politics, where prolonged court cases sometimes affect the ability of parties and candidates to fully participate in elections. In some instances, court rulings have come after key electoral deadlines have passed, limiting their practical effect.
Shehu also referred to the internal divisions within the ADC, mentioning factions linked to different leaders, including one associated with David Mark. These divisions have contributed to the ongoing legal disputes and uncertainty within the party.
Shehu advised the ADC to remain focused and prepared for further challenges, rather than becoming complacent after the Supreme Court ruling.
“ADC must brace up, tighten its belt and prepare for more democratic and political landmines and explosives,” he warned.
The ADC is one of several political parties in Nigeria, although it is smaller compared to dominant parties like the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Despite its size, the party has attracted attention in recent years as an alternative platform for political actors.
As Nigeria continues to strengthen its democratic system, legal disputes within political parties remain a common feature. Courts often play a key role in resolving these disputes, but the process can be lengthy and complex.
For ADC members and supporters, the message from Shehu’s warning is clear: while the Supreme Court ruling may be a positive development, it should not lead to complacency. Instead, the party needs to stay alert, resolve its internal issues, and prepare for the challenges ahead.