The All Progressives Congress has advised the African Democratic Congress to address its internal leadership challenges instead of blaming the ruling administration for a recent judicial ruling that nullified the David Mark-led national executive and the presidential candidacy of Atiku Abubakar.
In a media statement released on Friday by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the ruling party characterized the opposition's response to the verdict as hollow complaints, maintaining that it had no hand in the ongoing litigation. Morka asserted that the ADC routinely disparages the judiciary and accuses the ruling party of conspiracy whenever judicial outcomes disfavor them, while readily praising the courts when rulings go their way.
According to the APC, the opposition platform displays a disregard for the separation of powers and judicial autonomy, which are vital components of a stable democratic system. The spokesperson emphasized that the litigation stemmed from an internal disagreement brought forward by aggrieved party officials who challenged the legitimacy of the Mark-led faction, viewing the initial assumption of power as a breach of internal party guidelines.
What led to the legal dispute?
The court case was initiated by internal party members who argued that the leadership transition violated democratic norms within the organization. Morka pointed out that the verdict delivered by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja highlighted the strength of judicial independence and adherence to constitutional order. The ruling effectively removed the current leadership structure and invalidated previous administrative actions, including primaries conducted for elective positions.
How did the ruling party respond to threats of anarchy?
The ruling party's spokesperson encouraged the aggrieved opposition members to utilize legal avenues through appellate courts if they disputed the verdict, rather than engaging in political attacks and inciting civil disobedience. Morka questioned the readiness of the opposition to manage state affairs, suggesting that an organization unable to resolve its internal fractions lacks the capacity to govern the nation effectively.
Concluding the statement, the APC reaffirmed that the administration led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains dedicated to upholding democratic principles, constitutionalism, and effective public administration, despite what it termed reckless commentary from political opponents.