Olayiwola Matthew
African Democratic Congress (ADC) leadership crisis escalated 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 formal recognition.
Hundreds of supporters, largely youths, accompanied Bala to INEC, insisting that the commission update its records to reflect him as the national chairman of the ADC, pending the outcome of an ongoing court case over the dispute.
Bala’s faction cited the reported resignation of Ralph Nwosu, former national chairman as justification for his succession under the party’s constitution.
During the protest, Bala accused the rival faction, led by David Mark, former Senate President of attempting to hijack the party.
Bala said, “We are here to urge INEC to follow due process. You cannot come into the ADC through the backdoor and attempt to take over leadership from those who built the party.
“As democrats, we will not allow moneybags to destroy internal democracy. The ADC belongs to all Nigerians, from the ward level to the national level.”
Supporting Bala, Leke Abejide, house of representatives member called on INEC to resist what he described as an attempted takeover.
“The party’s constitution is clear. You must spend at least two years as an active member before aspiring for any position. These individuals are hijackers, and INEC must restore the status quo by recognising Nafiu Bala as National Chairman,” he said.
Mohammed Sahad, ADC director of youths and mobilisation also urged INEC to formally recognise Bala, while Comrade Isa Onimisi, the President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria stated his presence was in solidarity with Nigerian youths, not a political faction.
Abdullahi Abdu Zuru, INEC national commissioner addressed the protesters, assuring them that their submissions would be reviewed.
“The commission will look into your submission and provide feedback. Thank you for conducting yourselves peacefully,” he said.
The protest follows a demonstration by the Mark-led faction the previous day under the #OccupyINEC banner, highlighting deepening divisions within the ADC ahead of upcoming elections.
