By Muhammad Mamman
The leadership tussle within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has taken a fresh twist, as a faction of the party has dismissed the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) recognition of former Senate President, David Mark, as National Chairman.
The faction, led by former Deputy National Chairman Nafiu Bala, rejected INEC’s update naming Mark and other officials as the duly constituted National Working Committee (NWC). Bala maintained that he remains the legitimate chairman, insisting the Commission’s declaration holds no weight.
“I am not aware that INEC has recognised Mark or anyone else as chairman of the ADC. As I have always maintained, I am the authentic chairman, and nothing has changed,” Bala told reporters on Wednesday.
INEC had earlier confirmed the party’s new leadership on its official website, listing David Mark as National Chairman and former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, as National Secretary. Also named were Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi as National Publicity Secretary, Dr Mani Ibrahim Ahmad as National Treasurer, Akibu Dalhatu as National Financial Secretary, and former Edo State Governor, Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor, as National Legal Adviser.
The development follows the formal dissolution of the previous NWC led by Chief Ralph Nwosu, during the ADC’s 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, which was monitored by INEC officials.
Party insiders warn that the rejection by Bala’s camp signals a prolonged leadership battle that could affect the ADC’s preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
