Court Declines Hearing of Kachikwu’s Motion Against INEC, ADC Leaders

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has refused to entertain an application brought by Dumebi Kachikwu, former presidential flagbearer of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), seeking to stop the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognizing Senator David Mark and former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, as the party’s national chairman and secretary.

Justice James Omotosho, in his ruling, stated that the matter was largely political and would not be treated separately at this stage. He directed that all preliminary objections and motions be consolidated and heard alongside the main suit.

Kachikwu, through his counsel, Dayo Akinlaja (SAN), had asked the court to compel INEC to retract the publication of Mark and Aregbesola’s names as leaders of the ADC, arguing that their recognition violated the legal principle of *lis pendens*, since their appointment was already a subject of litigation.

While declining to grant that request, the court approved a joinder motion filed by Nkemakolam Ukandu, the party’s deputy national secretary, making him a co-defendant in the case.

The plaintiffs were instructed to submit amended filings within 48 working hours, while the defence was given one week to reply.

The matter has been scheduled for hearing on October 23.

Kachikwu has repeatedly faulted INEC’s endorsement of Mark’s leadership, accusing the commission of undermining due process and further questioning its credibility.