ADC faction disowns ‘empty convention’ video, awaits S’Court ruling

The Punch reports on internal turmoil within Nigeria's African Democratic Congress (ADC), specifically concerning a faction led by Nafiu Bala Gombe. A viral video depicting an empty venue for a supposed national convention has sparked controversy, with the Gombe-led faction vehemently denying the event ever took place as alleged.

“

The said video, produced by agents of the coalition’s propaganda machinery, makes reference to a purported elective convention of the ADC allegedly conducted at the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola International Stadium, Abuja.

This incident highlights the deep-seated leadership disputes plaguing the ADC. The faction's Chief of Staff, Bala Kumo, clarified that no elective convention was authorized, framing the video as a deliberate act of propaganda by political adversaries. This response underscores the party's commitment to due process and its reliance on the judicial system to resolve its internal conflicts.

“

For purposes of clarity and to set the record straight, the ADC under the national leadership of Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe has not, at any time, issued a notice of an elective convention to its members, nor has it authorised any such gathering.

The narrative presented by The Punch emphasizes the ongoing legal battles that are shaping the ADC's future. With a Supreme Court ruling imminent, the party's structure and its readiness for future elections hang in the balance. The publication also notes the existence of parallel leadership claims, adding another layer of complexity to the party's internal dynamics. From a Nigerian perspective, such internal wrangling within political parties is a familiar, albeit often frustrating, aspect of the political landscape, raising questions about party discipline and the path to genuine democratic consolidation.

“

As a responsible and law-abiding political party that upholds the tenets of due process, constitutionalism, and the rule of law, the ADC shall await the determination of the suit currently pending before the Federal High Court and the related appeal before the Supreme Court.