Published by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The African Democratic Congress has announced dates for its ward, local government, state congresses, and national convention, moving ahead despite a directive from the Independent National Electoral Commission to suspend recognition of its leadership pending the resolution of an ongoing legal dispute. The move underscores tensions between party autonomy and regulatory oversight as Nigeria’s political landscape prepares for the 2027 general elections.
The announcement follows a protracted leadership struggle within the party, which has seen factions aligned with former Senate President David Mark and Nafiu Bala Gombe contesting control. The dispute is currently before the Federal High Court in Abuja, with the Court of Appeal previously issuing orders to maintain the status quo and prevent actions that could prejudice the ongoing proceedings. INEC subsequently announced it would not recognise any faction of the party, remove existing leadership names from its portal, and refrain from monitoring any party congresses or conventions until a final court ruling is delivered.
Despite the commission’s position, ADC officials insist the party has complied with its constitutional provisions and legal requirements, including providing a 21-day notice to INEC for its congresses and convention. Party leaders argue that the commission’s refusal to observe the process does not invalidate the internal activities, framing the congresses as essential for organisational renewal, grassroots mobilisation, and leadership elections at the ward, local government, and state levels.
The party’s decision has drawn mixed reactions from political analysts and stakeholders. Some view it as an assertion of party independence, while others warn of potential legal complications that could arise if outcomes from the congresses or convention are challenged in court. Legal experts emphasise that while parties have autonomy in managing internal affairs, compliance with INEC guidelines for notification, transparency, and monitoring is crucial to prevent disputes and ensure legitimacy.
The leadership crisis within ADC has intensified following recent high-profile defections that strengthened the party’s profile as an opposition platform. Among these is the defection of former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, which has shifted political calculations and increased the stakes in the party’s internal elections.
The roots of the conflict go back to 2025 when the former National Working Committee stepped down, paving the way for a leadership structure led by David Mark. Nafiu Bala Gombe contested this transition, claiming his entitlement to lead according to party rules, prompting a series of legal challenges. INEC’s subsequent withdrawal of recognition was intended to preserve neutrality until judicial determination of the legitimate leadership.
Observers note that the ADC’s decision to proceed could test the limits of INEC’s authority over internal party matters. Excessive intervention risks undermining party autonomy, while insufficient oversight may allow disputes to escalate and affect the credibility of leadership outcomes. The situation also has broader political implications, as ADC has positioned itself as a platform for opposition realignment, attracting figures seeking to challenge dominant parties. Internal instability could therefore impact coalition-building and opposition strategy ahead of 2027.
For now, the ADC appears determined to conduct its congresses and national convention as scheduled, presenting the process as a step toward strengthening party structures and maintaining momentum. Meanwhile, INEC continues to emphasise adherence to legal and regulatory frameworks, with the final resolution expected from ongoing court proceedings. The coming weeks will be critical in determining both the legitimacy of the party’s actions and the balance between regulatory authority and party autonomy in Nigeria’s electoral system.
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