A legal expert has advised the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to take a more strategic approach in its ongoing dispute involving the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the judiciary.
The advice comes shortly after the party announced dates for its congresses, a move that has stirred fresh debate amid lingering legal uncertainties surrounding its internal processes.
Concerns Over Legal Strategy
In a statement directed to the party’s spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, the lawyer warned that the ADC’s challenge goes beyond its disagreement with Independent National Electoral Commission.
According to the lawyer, the party is simultaneously contending with both INEC and the judicial system, making it necessary to adopt a more comprehensive legal strategy.
“Dear @BolajiADC, I think by now, the party should have realised that it’s not fighting INEC only. We are fighting both INEC and the Judiciary,” the lawyer stated.
Call for Clear Legal Direction
The lawyer also expressed concern over what he described as an insufficient response to a recent court order referenced by David Mark during a press briefing.
He noted that simply disputing the interpretation of the court ruling is not enough, stressing the need for clarity on the party’s next legal steps.
“The only reference to the court order by Sir David Mark in his press conference is that the interpretation given to the order is not correct,” he said.
Options Before the Party
The legal practitioner outlined several possible actions the ADC could take, including complying with the court order, seeking an accelerated hearing at the Federal High Court, or escalating the matter to higher courts.
He further suggested that the party could approach the Court of Appeal directly for proper interpretation of the “status quo ante bellum” cited in the ruling.
“We need to know whether the party will obey the order, go back to the Federal High Court and apply for accelerated hearing, will it appeal the order to the Supreme Court, or will it approach the Court of Appeal itself,” he added.
Congress Plans Still in Focus
Despite the legal uncertainties, the ADC has continued preparations for its congresses, a move seen by some observers as bold but potentially risky if the legal issues remain unresolved.
The lawyer emphasised that addressing the judicial concerns is just as important as proceeding with party activities.
“Addressing these issues is equally as important as going ahead with the convention. Thank you,” the statement concluded.
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