The Supreme Court has directed David Mark to return to the federal high court for the hearing of the leadership dispute within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

In a unanimous judgment delivered by a five-member panel led by Mohammed Garba, the apex court ruled that the Court of Appeal exceeded its jurisdiction by ordering parties to maintain the status quo after dismissing the appeal.

The dispute originated from a suit filed by Nafiu Bala, who challenged the legitimacy of the Mark-led leadership and sought recognition as acting national chairman following the exit of Ralph Nwosu. Bala also asked the court to restrain the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising the current executives.

The Supreme Court held that the appellate court’s order was unnecessary and improper, especially since the appeal had already been dismissed for lacking merit and proper legal basis. It subsequently voided the status quo directive and ordered that the substantive issues be determined at the trial court.