Katsina High Court freezes ADC party activities as leadership battle stalls April convention

Justice A. K. Tukur orders an immediate freeze on all ADC operations in Katsina, halting party congresses ahead of the planned April national convention.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 8, 2026, 3:41 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Naija News

Judicial Intervention in Katsina Party Governance

The Katsina State High Court has ordered an immediate cessation of all African Democratic Congress activities within its jurisdiction. Justice A. K. Tukur issued the order in response to an ex parte application filed by the state party chairman, Usman Wamba, who is seeking to protect his authority against rival factions. This legal freeze remains in effect until April 15, 2026, creating a significant administrative vacuum during a critical period of internal reorganization for the political organization.

Restraining Rival Stakeholders and Federal Oversight

The court’s injunction specifically targets Lawan Batagarawa and Babangida Ibrahim Mahuta, prohibiting them from parading themselves as party stakeholders or conducting official business. Furthermore, Justice Tukur extended the mandate to the national leadership of the ADC and the Independent National Electoral Commission, barring them from recognizing or supervising any meetings organized by the defendants. This ruling effectively isolates the Katsina chapter from federal electoral oversight until the substantive legal claims are addressed.

Stalled Congresses and Disrupted Convention Timeline

This judicial blockade has significant implications for the party’s broader electoral calendar. The ADC was prepared to commence unit level congresses on April 9, 2026, progressing through wards and local government areas in anticipation of a national convention on April 14. By mandating a return to the status quo, the court has effectively dismantled the logistical framework for these meetings, making it nearly impossible for the Katsina delegation to participate in the upcoming national leadership selection process.