The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has rejected the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withdraw recognition of its leadership, alleging a coordinated attempt by the federal government to destabilise the party.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of mounting pressure on INEC to interfere in its internal affairs amid an ongoing leadership dispute.
Abdullahi claimed that recent political developments, particularly the defection of Rabiu Kwankwaso from the New Nigeria People’s Party to the ADC, have unsettled the ruling party.
Kwankwaso, a former Kano State governor, joined the ADC on March 30 after placing fourth in the 2023 presidential election won by President Bola Tinubu.
The ADC noted that its growing ranks, which include prominent opposition figures such as Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, have strengthened its position as a major opposition platform.
Dispute Over Leadership
The controversy stems from a leadership tussle involving David Mark, the party’s national chairperson, and Nafiu Bala, who is challenging Mark’s leadership in court.
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Bala had approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, arguing that he should assume leadership of the party in line with its constitution following the resignation of former chairman Ralph Nwosu. The case is still pending.
However, the ADC maintained that Bala had resigned from the party as far back as May 18, 2025, and has since been expelled.
The party also presented a resignation letter allegedly written by him, although its authenticity could not be independently verified.
INEC’s Position
INEC had earlier announced the suspension of recognition of the ADC leadership in compliance with a ruling by the Court of Appeal, which directed all parties to maintain the status quo pending the determination of the suit.
The commission stated that it would refrain from dealing with any faction of the party until the court delivers a final judgment.
An interlocutory appeal filed by Mr Mark’s camp was dismissed by the appellate court, which reaffirmed the directive to maintain the existing situation until the matter is resolved.
Protest Allegation
The ADC further alleged that a protest is being sponsored by a senior government official to undermine the current leadership of the party.
According to Abdullahi, the planned protest in Abuja is aimed at creating the impression of internal dissent and strengthening the legal challenge against Mark’s leadership.
He described the move as part of a broader strategy to “hijack” the party and weaken opposition forces ahead of future political contests.
“The plan is to stage a protest with paid participants posing as aggrieved members demanding the removal of the leadership,” he said.
Party Vows Resistance
Despite the developments, the ADC insisted it would resist any attempt to undermine its structure through lawful means.
The party described INEC’s action as an “onslaught” and warned that such moves could discourage other political actors from aligning with the opposition.
It also accused some legal actors of attempting to pressure the electoral body with threats, including alleged warnings of arrest if their demands were not met.
The ADC maintained that no court had ordered the removal of its leadership and insisted that any attempt to impose a new structure under the guise of maintaining the status quo was misleading.
The party reaffirmed its commitment to due process and expressed confidence that the courts would ultimately resolve the dispute.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
