A High Court in Adamawa State has ordered the suspension of the congresses of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) scheduled for Thursday, April 9, 2026, in a move that underscores deepening internal divisions within the party.
The congresses, which were to be held across the ward, local government, and state levels, were expected to form part of the party’s internal democratic process in the state. However, the exercise was halted following an order issued by Justice Ahmed Isah of High Court No. 6 sitting in Yola.
Justice Isah directed that all activities relating to the congresses be suspended pending the determination of a suit filed before the court. The matter has subsequently been adjourned to April 15, 2026, for continuation of hearing.
The legal action was initiated by the Adamawa State chairman of the ADC, Yohanna Shehu, who is contesting what he described as his exclusion from the planning and coordination of the congresses. According to Shehu, the processes leading to the scheduled exercise were carried out without his knowledge or input, raising concerns about transparency and adherence to party guidelines.
At the center of the controversy is the state transition committee of the ADC, a leadership structure headed by Sadiq Dasin, which Shehu claims took over the responsibility of organizing the congresses without proper consultation. The committee’s role in the process has been described as contentious, with critics alleging that it lacks the legitimacy to unilaterally oversee such a crucial party activity.
Speaking after the court proceedings, Shehu maintained that his decision to approach the court was driven by the need to uphold internal democracy within the party. He argued that sidelining the state chairman in planning such an important exercise undermines the party’s constitution and weakens its institutional framework.
“How can you plan the congresses of a party without due consultation with the state chairman?” Shehu queried, expressing dissatisfaction with the manner in which the process was handled.
Political observers say the development reflects a broader leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress, which has in recent times been grappling with factional disputes in different parts of the country. The situation in Adamawa is seen as part of a wider struggle for control and influence within the party’s structure.
The suspension of the congresses is likely to have implications for the party’s organizational activities in the state, particularly as congresses are essential for electing officials and strengthening grassroots structures. With the exercise now on hold, party members and stakeholders are expected to await the court’s decision before taking further steps.
Legal analysts note that the court’s intervention highlights the increasing role of the judiciary in resolving intra-party disputes in Nigeria. They also stress the importance of political parties adhering strictly to their constitutions and ensuring inclusive processes to avoid such conflicts.
Meanwhile, supporters of both factions are closely monitoring developments as the case progresses. The outcome of the court proceedings could determine not only the immediate future of the congresses but also the broader leadership structure of the party in Adamawa State.
As the April 15 hearing date approaches, attention will remain focused on the High Court in Yola, where a ruling is expected to clarify the legality of the actions taken by the Sadiq Dasin-led committee and define the role of the state chairman in the congress planning process.
For now, the court’s decision to halt the exercise has effectively paused the ADC’s internal political activities in the state, adding another layer of uncertainty to the party’s ongoing efforts to stabilize its leadership and strengthen its position ahead of future political engagements.
