A Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a suit seeking the removal of former Senate President, Senator David Mark, and former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, as National Chairman and National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Delivering judgment on Friday, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ruled that the matter bordered on the internal affairs of a political party, over which the court lacked jurisdiction.

The judge held that issues relating to party leadership and membership are internal matters that political parties are expected to resolve through their own mechanisms.

Justice Abdulmalik noted that political parties are voluntary associations and that individuals join or exit them by choice.

According to her, members who feel aggrieved over decisions within their party should utilise internal dispute resolution processes or consider leaving the party if dissatisfied.

She stressed that cases concerning party membership and leadership are not justiciable, adding that courts cannot interfere in such matters.

The ruling effectively puts an end to the legal challenge seeking the removal of Mark and Aregbesola from their positions within the ADC leadership.

The decision comes amid heightened political activities and realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.