Nigeria: Court Halts ADC Congress in Katsina, Orders Parties to Maintain Status Quo

A High Court in Katsina State has issued an interim order restraining some members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from parading themselves as officials of the party in the state pending the determination of a suit before it.

The order followed an ex parte motion filed by Usman Wamba, who claims to be the chairman of the ADC in Katsina State, challenging alleged attempts to usurp his position.

In the ruling delivered by Justice A. K. Tukur on April 7, 2026, the court restrained Lawan Batagarawa and Babangida Ibrahim Mahuta, from presenting themselves as leaders or stakeholders of the party's Katsina chapter.

The court also barred them from conducting the affairs of the party or organising any congress in the state pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.

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In addition, the court restrained the national leadership of the ADC and the Independent National Electoral Commission from recognising or supervising any congress organised by the defendants.

Justice Tukur further ordered all parties to maintain the status quo in relation to the leadership and activities of the party in Katsina State.

The court granted leave for the plaintiff to serve the defendants, including those outside Katsina State, particularly in Abuja, through a courier service.

The case has been adjourned to April 15, 2026, for the hearing of the substantive motion.

When contacted, the Katsina state ADC legal adviser barrister Mustapha Shiru Mahuta confirmed that the party has received the court order and that the state party legal team is currently studying it for further actions.

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