Nigeria’s opposition coalition received a temporary boost on Thursday after the Supreme Court of Nigeria nullified the “status quo antebellum” directive previously issued against the African Democratic Congress (ADC) faction led by David Mark.

In its ruling, the apex court ordered that the Mark-led leadership be reinstated while the substantive case at the Federal High Court continues. The decision was delivered unanimously by a five-member panel headed by Mohammed Lawal Garba.

The court held that the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal exceeded its authority by issuing the order after it had already dismissed the case brought before it by a rival faction within the party.

The judgment, which was widely seen as pivotal, came amid heightened anxiety among ADC members nationwide. On the eve of the ruling, key party figures reportedly convened a crucial meeting at Mark’s residence, where they also explored alternative strategies in case the decision went against them.