ADC Crisis Deepens as Party Chieftain Seeks Judge’s Recusal Over Alleged Bias

The leadership tussle within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has taken a fresh twist, as a party chieftain, Nkemakolam Ukandu, has formally asked Justice Liman Suleiman of the Federal High Court, Abuja, to withdraw from presiding over an ongoing case involving the party.

Ukandu, in a motion on notice dated March 26, 2026, argued that he would not receive a fair hearing if Justice Suleiman continues to handle the matter, alleging that the court’s actions so far indicate bias.

The application, filed before the Federal High Court, seeks an order transferring the case file marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1637/2025 to the Chief Judge, Justice John Terhemba Tsoho, for reassignment to another judge.

Ukandu is also requesting a stay of proceedings pending a decision on the recusal application.

Through his counsel, Kalu Kalu Age, the applicant contended that the presiding judge allegedly entertained and granted an application without proper service of hearing notice on his legal team. He argued that this procedural lapse undermines the court’s jurisdiction over the matter.

In a 26 paragraph affidavit personally deposed to, Ukandu further accused Justice Suleiman of delivering rulings that allegedly favour the interests of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, claiming such actions could weaken opposition parties.

The dispute is linked to an earlier suit filed by Leke Abejide, a member of the House of Representatives, who challenged the emergence of former Senate President David Mark and others as leaders of the ADC.

Although Abejide has since been expelled from the party over alleged anti party activities including support for President Bola Tinubu’s second term bid, he has continued to pursue the matter in court. Ukandu, currently serving as the party’s welfare secretary, is among those affected by the litigation.

The case underscores the deepening internal divisions within the ADC, as legal battles continue to shape the party’s leadership structure ahead of future political contests.