The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reinstated David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as recognised leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on its official portal, marking a significant shift in the party’s prolonged leadership crisis.

According to updates on INEC’s website, Mark is now listed as National Chairman, while Aregbesola is recognised as National Secretary. Other officials listed include Dr Mani Ibrahim Ahmed as National Treasurer, Akibu Dalhatu as National Financial Secretary, and Prof Oserheimhen Osunbor as National Legal Adviser.

The development follows a recent judgment of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, which voided an earlier order that had frozen the party’s leadership structure and created uncertainty over its control.

INEC had previously refused to recognise any faction within the ADC, citing conflicting court decisions and the need to maintain neutrality pending clear judicial direction.

At the peak of the dispute, rival factions led by Mark and Nafiu Bala Gombe laid competing claims to the party’s leadership, prompting the electoral body to suspend recognition entirely.

The crisis was further complicated by conflicting lower court rulings and a “status quo” directive from the Court of Appeal, which the Supreme Court later set aside, describing it as inappropriate after the substantive matter had been struck out.

Despite INEC’s latest administrative recognition, the broader legal battle over the party’s leadership remains unresolved, as the case has been returned to the Federal High Court for further hearing.

Reacting to the Supreme Court ruling, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar welcomed the affirmation of Mark’s leadership but cautioned against complacency, noting that wider political contests remain ongoing ahead of the 2027 general elections.