By Nefishetu Yakubu
African Democratic Congress (ADC) says it has commenced process of appeal against Monday’s Appeal Court judgment, insisting that it respectfully disagrees with the decision and considers it legally unsustainable.
Appeal Court, Abuja division had delivered a judgment upholding the judgment of court below restraining the Independent national Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising state congresses organised by committees appointed by the David Mark-led caretaker leadership of ADC.
A three-member panel of the appellate court in a judgment delivered by Justice Okon Abang, said it found no reason to set aside the restraining order the Federal Court in Abuja had issued against the Mark-led ADC on April 29.
But a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said that the judgment concerns the party congresses for the ward, local government and state executives only.
The party said the judgment had no effect on its direct primaries, through which candidates for various elective offices emerged across the federation.
“We also note the dissenting judgment of the presiding justice, which, in our view, more accurately reflects the settled position of the law and the party’s position.
“We urge all party members and the millions of our supporters to remain calm, confident and focused,” the statement said.
The party said it remained committed to the task of providing Nigerians with a credible alternative and would continue to pursue that mission in accordance with the constitution.
(NAN)
