The Kwankwasiyya Movement has warned against allowing the leadership crisis in the African Democratic Congress, ADC, to undermine preparations for the 2027 general elections.
This was contained in a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its spokesperson, Dr Habibu Saleh Mohammed.
According to the statement, the movement said the uncertainty surrounding the party’s leadership and candidate selection could affect opposition parties’ ability to organise and participate effectively in the elections.
The warning followed a Federal High Court judgment delivered on Thursday which invalidated the David Mark-led caretaker leadership of the ADC and actions taken under its authority, including the process that produced former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as the party’s presidential candidate.
The movement expressed concern that prolonged legal disputes over opposition party leadership could weaken Nigeria’s democratic space.
It said political parties should be allowed to strengthen their structures and prepare for credible elections without unnecessary uncertainty.
“The uncertainty surrounding the ADC’s leadership and nominations should not be allowed to translate into the disenfranchisement of party members, aspirants and millions of Nigerians who expect a competitive and credible electoral process in 2027.”
It called on the judiciary to uphold the principles of independence, fairness and transparency in handling political disputes, stressing that all parties must be given a fair hearing.
“The Federal Government must ensure that opposition parties are allowed to operate freely without interference from any government institution or agency,” the movement said.
On the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the movement called on the electoral body to remain neutral and follow the law and valid court orders in dealing with the ADC leadership dispute.
It further urged all parties involved to pursue available legal options peacefully and allow the appellate courts to determine outstanding issues without political interference.
“We are not asking the courts to favour any political party or individual. We are asking that justice be done fairly, consistently and without fear or favour,” the statement said.
The movement added that public confidence in democratic institutions depended not only on the judgments they delivered but also on whether Nigerians considered those decisions fair and impartial.
