2027: ADC Takes Chief Judge Tsoho to Court Over Alleged Judicial Targeting of Opposition.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has lodged a lawsuit in the Abuja High Court against Chief Judge John Tsoho of the Federal High Court, citing concerns that stem from an ongoing leadership dispute within the party.

The National Judicial Council (NJC) has also been named in the suit. The ADC alleges that the NJC has failed to address issues it raised about the handling of a case that challenges the leadership of former Senate President David Mark within the ADC.

The complaint, dated 4 June 2026, was filed by ADC National Welfare Secretary Nkemakolam Ukandu. She seeks to be added to Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/1819/2025, which was originally brought by Nafiu Bala Gombe against the Mark‑led faction of the party.

Ukandu’s petition states that she is concerned about how the case has been managed and claims that the conduct of both Justice Tsoho and Justice Peter Lifu—who was assigned to hear the case—could undermine confidence in the proceedings.

The suit also notes that the appointment of Justice Lifu has raised doubts among some party members who fear the process may not provide a fair hearing.

This legal action adds a new dimension to the ADC’s leadership dispute, which has attracted considerable political attention as the 2027 general elections approach.

Meanwhile, the Grassroots Mobilization Network (GMN) has voiced concerns about the case’s handling and has demanded greater transparency in the judicial process. The group alleges that the judiciary is being used to target opposition parties.

These allegations remain unverified, and as of the filing of this report, no official response has been issued by the Federal High Court or by Justice Lifu.

The GMN has highlighted what it sees as a growing public distrust of the judiciary and has called on relevant authorities to ensure fairness and transparency in politically sensitive cases.

Neither the Federal High Court nor the National Judicial Council has publicly addressed the matters raised in this report.