…rejects David Mark, Nafiu Bala’s camps
Isaac Samuel
The leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) escalated on Tuesday with the emergence of a third faction, which has dissociated itself from both the Senator David Mark-led coalition and the camp loyal to Nafiu Bala.
The newly formed group, led by Don Norman Obinna, claims to represent the legitimate National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party, asserting that its members are duly elected officials.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Obinna criticized the former national chairman, Ralph Nwosu, for overstaying his tenure, which he said ended in August 2022, and accused him of plunging the party into prolonged legal battles.
“The tenure of Ralph Nwosu ended in August 2022. Since then, he has faced multiple litigations due to his refusal to step down,” Obinna said.
“His supposed handover of the party to the coalition led by Senator David Mark is illegal and has no standing within the ADC.”
The faction further rejected the authority of both the Mark-led coalition and Nafiu Bala’s camp, asserting that neither has the power to speak or make decisions on behalf of the party.
The Obinna-led group also questioned Bala’s claim to the position of National Vice Chairman, stating that he never legitimately held the office.
“The David Mark coalition are not members of ADC and cannot represent the party in any capacity. We will not recognize any decisions taken by either faction.”
In a move likely to intensify the ongoing dispute, the faction reaffirmed that the party’s former presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu, remains a bona fide member of the ADC.
It also announced the appointment of new officials to manage party affairs ahead of a national convention, which it said would restore order and legitimacy to the party’s leadership structure.
The crisis has attracted national attention, with prominent political figures commenting on the turmoil.
Former Kano State governor and 2023 presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, recently warned Nafiu Bala against being manipulated, noting that the young politician must be guided wisely.
“I was supposed to meet Nafiu Bala yesterday, but he did not show up. Many had indicated he would not come,” Kwankwaso said.
“He was born in 1990 and is still young, with much to learn. Those close to him must advise him and call him to order. His actions could destabilize not just the party but the country.”
Meanwhile, the ADC crisis has spawned multiple court cases as rival factions lay claim to the party’s leadership.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has withdrawn recognition of all competing factions and removed key names from its official portal, pending a court resolution.
INEC has also stated it will not monitor or recognize any party activities until the matter is conclusively settled, citing a directive from the Court of Appeal to maintain the status quo.
