The leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) deepened on Thursday as a faction led by Nafiu Bala Gombe staged a protest at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja, demanding official recognition.
Gombe, alongside Leke Abejide and hundreds of supporters, accused a rival leadership group under David Mark of attempting to hijack the party’s structure in violation of its constitution.
Addressing INEC officials during the protest, Gombe emphasized the importance of due process in resolving the dispute.
“We are here to urge INEC to follow due process. You cannot come into the ADC through the backdoor and attempt to take over the leadership from its rightful members. As democrats, we will not allow money-driven interests to undermine the party. The ADC belongs to all Nigerians, from the ward level to the national level,” he said.
Also speaking, Abejide called on the commission to resist what he described as an unlawful takeover, stressing that the party’s constitution clearly outlines eligibility requirements for leadership positions.
“We urge INEC to do the right thing and protect democracy from those attempting to hijack the party. How can individuals join a party and attempt to assume leadership on the same day? The constitution is clear—you must be an active member of the ADC for at least two years before aspiring to any position. These actions are unconstitutional, and INEC must restore the status quo by recognising Nafiu Bala Gombe as the national chairman,” he stated.
In a similar vein, the party’s Director of Youths and Mobilisation, Mohammed Sahad, commended INEC for complying with a court order but called for further steps to affirm Gombe’s leadership.
“INEC has acted appropriately so far, and we commend the commission for obeying the court order. However, it must go further by recognising Nafiu Bala Gombe as the authentic national chairman of the ADC. This is necessary to uphold democracy,” he said.
Responding on behalf of the commission, INEC National Commissioner Abdullahi Abdu Zuru assured the protesters that their concerns would be reviewed.
“I am here on behalf of the chairman. INEC will examine your submission and provide feedback accordingly. We appreciate the peaceful conduct of your protest,” he said.
