The African Democratic Congress (ADC) today threw its weight behind the legal opinion issued by Dr. Alex Ter Adum, Ph.D., regarding the suit filed by Don Norman Obinna and others. The party says Ter Adum’s analysis fully exonerates the David Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC) and provides clear guidance to members nationwide.
ADC: Don Norman Obinna’s Case Is Not for the Courts
The David Mark-led NWC has described the suit as “non-justiciable,” echoing Ter Adum’s view that party organs—not the courts—are responsible for managing congresses and conventions unless there is a clear breach of the constitution or applicable laws.
Lawyers: Claimants Lack Standing as They Are Not Elected Chairmen
Following Ter Adum’s lead, the ADC asserts that most plaintiffs are caretaker appointees rather than elected state chairmen, and therefore lack legal standing to initiate the suit. The NWC argues this fundamental flaw invalidates the entire case.
Originating Summons Is Inappropriate, ADC Tells Plaintiffs
The Mark-led NWC agrees with Ter Adum that an Originating Summons is an improper legal instrument for disputes centered on legitimacy and tenure. The party insists that such matters require live evidence and should be pursued through a proper Writ of Summons.
ADC Calls Relief Requests Overblown, Urges Members to Proceed as Planned
Endorsing Ter Adum’s opinion, the ADC states that the relief sought collapses under Section 223(2)(a) of the 1999 Constitution and the automatic vacation of all state working committees’ offices on March 26, 2026. The NWC characterizes the suit as frivolous and insists it cannot lawfully delay any ADC activities.
NWC Urges Members to Stay Active and Ignore ‘Baseless’ Suit
Reassured by Ter Adum’s legal opinion, the David Mark-led NWC encourages members to continue participating fully in meetings, congresses, and conventions without fear. They describe the suit as a “paper tiger” and affirm that the party’s constitutional timetable remains firmly on track.
