ABUJA, July 9, 2026 — The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has instructed all its state chapters to immediately stop handling court cases or engaging lawyers on behalf of the party, as the leadership moves to centralise all legal matters at the national level.

The directive was issued by the party’s National Legal Adviser, who said only the National Working Committee (NWC), acting through the party’s national legal department, is authorised to initiate, defend or manage litigation involving the ADC. The decision is aimed at ensuring consistency in the party’s legal strategy amid ongoing political and internal disputes.

According to the party, state executives are no longer permitted to receive court documents, file legal processes, instruct lawyers or make representations in any matter concerning the ADC without prior approval from the national leadership.

The legal adviser explained that the new policy became necessary to prevent conflicting legal actions capable of creating confusion or undermining the party’s position before the courts.

“No state chapter is authorised to receive court processes, brief lawyers or take any legal action on behalf of the party without the express approval of the National Working Committee through the office of the National Legal Adviser,” the directive stated.

The party warned that any legal action taken in violation of the directive would be regarded as unauthorised and could attract disciplinary measures against those responsible.

ADC leaders said centralising legal affairs would strengthen coordination, improve compliance with party procedures and ensure that all litigation aligns with the party’s constitution and national objectives.

The directive comes at a time when the party has faced a number of legal challenges involving its leadership, internal administration and political activities in different parts of the country. Party officials believe a unified legal approach will help protect the organisation’s interests and avoid contradictory court actions.

State chapters were urged to forward any court documents or legal notices received to the national legal department without delay for appropriate action.

The leadership also called on party members nationwide to comply fully with the directive, stressing that maintaining discipline and a coordinated legal strategy is essential as the ADC continues preparations for future political activities and electoral contests.