ADC Alleges Obstruction of Political Activities and Legal Delays

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has publicly raised concerns regarding both the judicial process and the political environment surrounding its campaign activities. In a statement released on Wednesday, the party criticized the timing of the delivery of a certified true copy (CTC) of a judgment by Justice Peter Lifu, while simultaneously accusing the All Progressives Congress (APC) of obstructing its political engagements in Kaduna State.

Concerns Over Judicial Timelines

The ADC expressed frustration over receiving the certified copy of Justice Lifu’s judgment on the final day of the seven-day period mandated by the 1999 Constitution. According to the party, this delay significantly restricts its ability to thoroughly review the court’s decision and formulate subsequent legal strategies.

The party cited Section 294(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which stipulates that courts are required to provide parties with duly authenticated copies of their decisions within seven days of delivery. While the ADC acknowledged that the delivery occurred within this constitutional window, it characterized the timing as a logistical hindrance to its legal preparations.

Allegations of Political Interference

Beyond the courtroom, the ADC has leveled serious accusations against the APC and the Kaduna State Government. The party claims that authorities sealed Arewa House, the venue previously selected for a consultation meeting between the ADC’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and Northern stakeholders.

In the statement signed by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication for the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, the party described the sealing of the venue as an affront to the dignity of Northern Nigeria. Atiku Abubakar himself noted that the campaign team had finalized plans to use the facility, only to find it inaccessible due to the state government’s intervention.

A Pattern of Obstruction?

The ADC suggests that these events are not isolated incidents but rather part of a broader pattern of behavior intended to frustrate its campaign. The party recalled a previous instance in Sokoto, where it alleged that the APC-led government attempted to disrupt its campaign flag-off, though the party maintained that its activities proceeded as planned despite those challenges.

The ADC has called on President Bola Tinubu and the APC to uphold the principles of democratic competition. The party stated, “An outgoing president and a ruling party should respect democratic competition, not use public authority to impede the opposition, restrict political consultation or weaken Nigerians’ right to choose.”

Conclusion

The ADC has affirmed that it will not be deterred by these developments. The party indicated that it intends to study the court judgment to pursue all available legal remedies while continuing its planned consultations across the country. As of the time of reporting, the APC and the Kaduna State Government have not provided a public response to these specific allegations. The ADC maintains that it remains committed to its campaign message and its right to engage with the electorate.

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p class=”vbna-source-note”>Source: Channels Television

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