ADC Faction Storms INEC, Demands Leadership Recognition

A faction of the African Democratic Congress led by Nafiu Bala Gombe on Thursday in Abuja staged a protest at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission, demanding official recognition as the legitimate leadership of the party, as the internal crisis within the ADC continues to grow.

The group, which included supporters and political figures such as Leke Abejide, gathered at the commission’s office to present their position. They argued that the leadership structure being promoted by another faction of the party does not follow the party’s constitution or established procedures.

During the protest, members of the group maintained that leadership changes within the party must follow due process and should not be carried out in a way that ignores existing structures. They also insisted that the party belongs to its members at all levels and should not be controlled by a few individuals.

The protesters called on the electoral body to act within the law by recognising the leadership they support. They also raised concerns about what they described as an attempt to take over the party outside its rules, adding that such actions could affect internal stability.

Other party members who spoke during the protest backed the call for recognition and urged the commission to maintain fairness in handling the matter. They said the party’s constitution provides clear conditions for leadership positions and should be followed strictly.

In response, an official of the Independent National Electoral Commission received the protesters and assured them that their complaints would be reviewed and addressed appropriately.

The protest took place shortly after another group within the party, linked to David Mark, had also demonstrated in Abuja, raising concerns about actions taken by the electoral body. That earlier protest drew several political figures and supporters.

The series of protests shows the deep division within the ADC, with different groups pushing for control of the party’s leadership. The situation has raised concerns about the party’s unity as political activities continue ahead of future elections in the country.