Kwankwasiyya Movement Raises Alarm Over ADC Judgment, Warns Against Undermining Opposition
The Kwankwasiyya Movement has expressed concern over the Federal High Court judgment on the leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), calling for judicial independence and the protection of opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Movement Spokesperson, Dr. Habibu Muhammad Mailemo, said in a released Thursday, that the judgment delivered on November 5, 2026, which invalidated the David Mark-led caretaker leadership of the ADC and decisions taken under its authority, including the process that produced former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as the party’s presidential candidate, could create uncertainty in Nigeria’s democratic process.
Dr. Habibu Sale Mohammed, note that the Movement acknowledged the constitutional authority of the judiciary to settle disputes but warned that prolonged legal battles over opposition party leadership and candidate nominations could weaken democratic competition.
He stressed that Nigeria’s democracy must be founded on political pluralism, institutional independence, equal treatment before the law and the protection of citizens’ rights to participate in the electoral process.
The Kwankwasiyya Movement urged the judiciary to discharge its constitutional responsibilities with independence, impartiality, transparency and diligence, insisting that every political dispute must be determined based on the law, available evidence and relevant constitutional provisions.
It also called on the Federal Government to demonstrate genuine commitment to political pluralism and avoid any action that could undermine the legitimate activities of opposition parties or restrict their participation in the democratic process.
The Movement further urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain neutral in handling political matters, stressing that all political factions and legitimate stakeholders must receive equal treatment in accordance with the law and valid court orders.
On the ADC’s intention to appeal the judgment, the Movement called on all parties to respect the judicial process and allow the appellate courts to determine the outstanding issues without intimidation, political interference or attempts to influence the outcome.
It warned that the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the ADC’s leadership and nominations must not result in the disenfranchisement of party members, aspirants and millions of Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The statement maintained that democracy cannot thrive where opposition parties are weakened by institutional uncertainty, selective application of the law or the perception that government institutions are being used for partisan interests.
The Movement clarified that its position was not to seek judicial favour for any political party or individual but to demand fairness, consistency and justice without fear or favour.
It added that the credibility of Nigeria’s democratic institutions depends not only on the judgments they deliver but also on the public confidence those decisions generate.
The Kwankwasiyya Movement therefore called on the judiciary, INEC, the Federal Government, political parties and other stakeholders to protect Nigeria’s democracy, respect opposition voices and ensure that the rule of law prevails as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
“Our democracy must be protected. Opposition voices must be respected. The rule of law must prevail,” the statement concluded.
