Opposition parties in Nigeria have rallied behind the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following a Federal High Court judgment nullifying the David Mark-led leadership of the party, warning that the ruling could threaten the survival of opposition politics ahead of the 2027 general election.
The Coalition for Democracy, a group comprising leaders of opposition parties formerly known as the G100 Coalition, condemned Thursday’s judgment, describing it as a dangerous development for Nigeria’s democratic system.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by Salihu Lukman on behalf of the coalition parties, the group alleged that the ruling represented an escalation of what it called a systematic attempt to weaken and eliminate credible opposition ahead of the next general election.
The coalition expressed concern that the court’s decision could further undermine political pluralism and restrict the ability of opposition parties to participate effectively in the electoral process.
It also warned that developments surrounding the ADC should not be viewed as an isolated party dispute, insisting that any attempt to undermine one opposition party could have wider consequences for the country’s democratic institutions.
Underlining its solidarity with the ADC, the coalition declared: “An attack on one is an attack on all.”
The judgment, delivered by the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday, nullified the David Mark-led executive of the ADC, triggering widespread reactions within the opposition and raising questions about the party’s leadership and political future.
The ruling has also intensified uncertainty surrounding the ADC’s preparations for the 2027 elections, particularly its role as a potential platform for opposition figures seeking to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The coalition’s intervention signals growing resistance among opposition groups to the court decision, as political activities and realignments gather momentum ahead of the 2027 polls.
Nigeria’s next general election is expected to be a major political contest, with opposition parties seeking to consolidate their strength and present a formidable challenge to the ruling party.
