By BONIFACE AKARAH

The Obidient Movement has called on the Supreme Court of Nigeria to expedite its ruling on the leadership dispute within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), warning that continued delay could undermine opposition cohesion ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the group said the pending case has created uncertainty within the opposition coalition and risks disenfranchising supporters seeking an alternative political platform.

“The apex court is the last refinery of justice, and at a time when the political landscape requires absolute clarity, any prolonged delay… provides room for mischief, fuels factionalism, and undermines preparations for a robust multi-party contest,” said Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the movement.

The group argued that the dispute has moved beyond an internal party matter to one of national importance, stressing that clarity in leadership is critical for political engagement and electoral planning.

According to the statement, the absence of a definitive ruling has left party members in “a state of flux,” weakening the ability of the ADC and its coalition partners to organise effectively.

“Justice delayed in this matter is effectively democracy denied,” Tanko said.

The movement noted that institutions such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as well as the electorate, require a clearly recognised leadership structure to engage with, particularly as party primaries and coalition negotiations begin to take shape.

It added that the Supreme Court’s decision to reserve judgment on April 22 has prolonged uncertainty at a critical time in the political calendar.

“As the 2027 electoral cycle approaches, the continued ambiguity surrounding the party’s executive structure threatens not only the internal stability of the ADC but the broader viability of opposition consolidation in Nigeria,” the statement said.

The group expressed confidence in the judiciary but urged the apex court to act swiftly.

“A swift and clear pronouncement from the Supreme Court will stabilise the political atmosphere and allow the ADC and the wider opposition movement to focus on the essential task of nation-building,” Tanko added.

The Obidient Movement reiterated its trust in the judiciary as the “steadfast guardian” of Nigeria’s democratic process while urging timely resolution of the matter.

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