Nigeria, April 29 -- The Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising or participating in any congress organised by a disputed caretaker leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The judge, Joyce Abdulmalik, also restrained former Senate President David Mark and other party figures from interfering in the functions and tenure of elected state executives.

The decision came on Wednesday as a crucial Supreme Court judgement on the lingering leadership crisis of the party is being awaited. On 22 April, the Supreme Court reserved judgement on an appeal brought by the Mr Mark-led faction of the party.

Ms Abdulmalik delivered her judgement in a suit filed by N...