ADC Acting Chairman Alleges Deception in Leadership Takeover

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is currently navigating a turbulent period, marked by a deepening leadership crisis that threatens its stability ahead of the crucial 2027 general elections. The party, which has been a platform for opposition figures, is now fractured into at least three rival camps, each vying for control and recognition.

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I was tricked to attend the handing-over ceremony to David Mark. Ralph told me that it was just adoption of new members for the coalition movement.

Recent events have brought these internal conflicts to the forefront. Acting National Chairman Nafiu Bala has publicly accused the party's former chairman, Ralph Nwosu, of deception. Bala claims he was misled into attending a ceremony where David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola were installed as interim National Chairman and Secretary, respectively. According to Bala, he was told the event was merely for adopting new coalition members, not for a leadership handover.

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But on the same day, Nwosu announced his resignation, and on the same day, he announced David Mark and other excos.

This internal strife is not new, but the allegations of trickery and the subsequent actions by Bala, including informing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of his assumption of the acting chairmanship, highlight the severity of the current dispute. The situation is further complicated by accusations of illegality and impunity leveled by the different factions against each other. As the ADC grapples with these challenges, its ability to present a united front for the upcoming elections remains uncertain.

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After consultations, I wrote a letter to INEC, as Deputy National Chairman and with the remaining NWC, that I had resumed office as the authentic acting National Chairman of the party.