ADC crisis deepens as INEC rejects both factions after court ruling
Nafiu Bala, a factional national chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has confirmed his presence at the July 2025 meeting where Senator David Mark was installed as interim leader—an event that triggered the party's ongoing internal crisis. Two factions now exist, led by Bala and Mark respectively.
On Wednesday, INEC announced it will recognize neither faction following a Court of Appeal ruling issued on March 12, 2026. Bala, in a Tuesday statement, denied any prior agreement to select Mark, claiming former National Chairman Ralph Okey Nwosu resigned spontaneously and unilaterally appointed Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as Acting Chairman and National Secretary.
Bala argues these actions violated the ADC Constitution (Articles 8(2) and 9(4) of the 2022 amended version), which prohibits an outgoing chairman from naming a successor. The constitutional breach is central to the dispute now before the courts.
This creates significant uncertainty for ADC members and potential 2027 candidates. With INEC non-recognition, the party may face difficulties fielding candidates unless the leadership crisis is resolved and the electoral body's concerns addressed. Voters in ADC strongholds may lose a party option if the crisis persists.
Does a party that cannot govern its own internal affairs deserve your vote in 2027, or should you consider alternative parties with clearer leadership structures?