Abuja: A former Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, has stated that the Supreme Court ruling on the African Democratic Congress’s (ADC) leadership dispute highlights the urgent need for a shared national direction. Reacting to the apex court’s decision, which affirmed the Sen. David Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC), Hayatu-Deen extended his congratulations to Mark on the legal victory.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Hayatu-Deen emphasized that the judgment reaffirmed the significance of due process in sustaining democratic institutions. He highlighted the necessity of protecting the integrity of internal party mechanisms from external manipulation to ensure institutional credibility and democratic legitimacy. ‘The judgment delivered today by the Supreme Court of Nigeria, affirming Sen. David Mark as National Chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary, represents affirmation of due process,’ he remarked.
Hayatu-Deen further noted that the ruling reinforced the rule of law and underscored the importance of transparent processes in Nigeria’s democratic journey. He stressed that sustainable democracies are founded on strong institutions, whose credibility relies on respect for rules, transparency, and lawful outcomes.
He pointed out that the judgment also underscores the necessity of preserving the sanctity of Nigeria’s democratic space and shielding party structures from distortion. He asserted that internal political party processes should not be subjected to artificial distortions, as they remain central to democratic health and legitimacy.
Despite the legal victory, Hayatu-Deen acknowledged the broader national challenges that ordinary Nigerians face daily. He noted that households are dealing with rising living costs while terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers continue violent attacks against defenseless citizens nationwide. ‘The imperative before us as a party is clear: that we must provide a vision of safety, opportunity, and prosperity,’ he added.
He emphasized that the stability created by the judgment must now translate into a coherent national development strategy for Nigerians. According to him, the ultimate goal is measurable improvement in citizens’ daily lives through better security, affordable living, and sustainable employment opportunities.
Hayatu-Deen concluded by congratulating Mark and Aregbesola on the affirmation of their leadership by the apex court. He also urged ADC leaders, members, and stakeholders to unite around a shared vision prioritizing competence, inclusivity, and results-driven governance.