97 Lawyers Mobilize To Defend ADC, Mark, Aregbesola Against Alleged APC ‘Fake Lawsuit’

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has assembled a legal team of 97 lawyers to contest what it calls a “fake lawsuit” filed by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) against its interim leadership.

The team, led by Barrister Mohammed Sheriff, announced this during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday.

The lawsuit in question targets top ADC figures, including former Senate President David Mark, now serving as the party’s Interim National Chairman, and ex-Minister Rauf Aregbesola. The ADC alleges that the APC filed the case using names of individuals who are not actual members of the party.

Lawsuit Sparks Legal and Political Backlash

The announcement follows a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja between Senator Mark and the Kogi State chapter of the ADC. Speaking at the event, Mark emphasized that the ADC belongs to all Nigerians, not any individual.

“I don’t own this party more than any other member,” Mark said. “All Nigerians must come together and take ownership of the ADC.”

He pledged transparency under his leadership and reassured members that the party would not favour any presidential aspirant. Mark also urged unity within the party, warning that Nigeria’s democracy is at risk if citizens remain disengaged.

ADC Accuses APC of Deception

The ADC condemned the APC for what it called “Machiavellian politics”, accusing the ruling party of attempting to destabilize its leadership through legal manipulation. According to ADC investigations, the alleged plaintiffs in the lawsuit are not registered members of the party in either Kogi or Nasarawa State.

“It’s a desperate move by a party that should be focused on correcting its policy failures,” the ADC stated.

Mark also criticized the APC’s handling of national issues like insecurity, questioning why Nigerians should continue to support a party that has failed to deliver on its promises.

Legal Team Poised for Action

Barrister Mohammed Sheriff, head of the ADC’s legal team, confirmed that 97 lawyers have volunteered to take on the case.

“We are fully prepared to defend the ADC and its leadership against this politically motivated attack,” Sheriff said.

Concluding the meeting, Mark called on Nigerians to support the ADC’s mission for a reformed and inclusive democracy.

“Let’s work together to rebuild this nation for future generations,” he urged.