The Supreme Court of Nigeria has directed David Mark and other parties in the African Democratic Congress leadership dispute to return to the Federal High Court for the continuation of the case.

In a unanimous judgment delivered Thursday, a five-member panel led by Mohammed Garba ruled that the Court of Appeal acted beyond its jurisdiction by issuing an order directing parties to maintain the status quo after dismissing the appeal.

The apex court described the order as “unnecessary, unwarranted and improper,” and subsequently set it aside.

The case stems from a suit filed by Nafiu Bala, who is challenging the leadership of the party. Bala is seeking recognition as acting national chairman, arguing that he did not resign as vice-chairman and should succeed the party’s former chairman, Ralph Nwosu.

Earlier, the Court of Appeal had dismissed Mark’s challenge to proceedings at the Federal High Court, describing it as premature and incompetent. It also ordered parties to maintain the status quo and awarded costs against Mark.

However, the Supreme Court upheld part of the appellate court’s decision, agreeing that Mark failed to obtain the required leave before filing the appeal. It nevertheless nullified the status quo order and instructed all parties to return to the trial court for determination of the substantive issues.

The ruling effectively restores the case to the Federal High Court, where the dispute over the ADC’s leadership will now be fully heard.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared his intention to seek re-election in 2027, alleging that some critics are exploiting the country’s security challenges to undermine his administration.

The President made the statement while receiving Caleb Mutfwang and other stakeholders from Plateau State. He said those amplifying insecurity concerns were acting in the interest of his political opponents.

According to him, “hostile forces” are weaponising insecurity in a bid to remove him from office, stressing that he remains undeterred. Tinubu added that he is committed to campaigning for a second term.

His comments come amid growing pressure on the Federal Government over persistent attacks, kidnappings, and killings in parts of the country, with opposition figures and civil society groups calling for stronger action.

The President, who assumed office in May 2023, maintains that his administration is providing the necessary support to security agencies to restore stability nationwide.

Hon. James Faleke has obtained the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for President Bola Tinubu, marking the official start of the president’s re-election bid for the 2027 general elections.

The forms were picked up on Tuesday at the Abuja Continental Hotel by a delegation from the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Faleke paid ₦100 million for the forms on behalf of Tinubu.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled the presidential and National Assembly elections for January 16, 2027, while governorship and State Assembly elections will take place on February 6, 2027.

INEC also fixed party primaries between April 23 and May 30, 2026. Campaigns for presidential and National Assembly elections will begin on August 19, 2026, while governorship and state assembly campaigns will start on September 9, 2026.

Meanwhile, the APC has released its timetable for the elections. Sale of forms runs from April 25 to May 2, with submission closing on May 4, 2026. Screening of aspirants is scheduled for May 6 to May 9, while appeals will hold from May 12 to May 13.

Primary elections will take place between May 15 and May 23, 2026, covering all elective positions.

The party also outlined fees for aspirants, with presidential forms costing ₦30 million for Expression of Interest and ₦70 million for Nomination. Discounts were announced for women, youths, and persons with disabilities.