 escalated on Thursday when a faction led by Nafiu Bala Gombe){kind=link}
The internal dispute within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) escalated on Thursday when a faction led by Nafiu Bala Gombe staged a protest at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja, demanding official recognition of its leadership.
Gombe, who was joined by Kogi lawmaker Leke Abejide and a large group of supporters, accused the faction aligned with David Mark of attempting to unlawfully seize control of the party in violation of its constitution and established procedures.
Addressing INEC officials during the demonstration, Gombe emphasized the need for due process in resolving the leadership tussle, warning against what he described as external interference in the party’s affairs. He maintained that the ADC belongs to its members across all levels and should not be influenced by powerful interests.
Abejide also urged INEC to reject what he termed an illegitimate takeover, noting that the party’s constitution requires individuals to be active members for at least two years before seeking leadership positions. He called on the commission to restore the status quo by recognizing Gombe as the legitimate national chairman.
Similarly, the ADC Director of Youths and Mobilisation, Mohammed Sahad, praised INEC for complying with a court directive but appealed for further action to affirm Gombe’s leadership. He insisted that such a step would uphold democratic principles within the party.
Responding on behalf of the commission, INEC National Commissioner Abdullahi Abdu Zuru assured the protesters that their petition would be carefully reviewed and that the commission would respond accordingly.
The protest came just a day after a rival faction led by David Mark organized a separate demonstration in Abuja under the #OccupyINEC banner. That protest attracted several notable political figures, including former presidential aspirants and ex-governors, along with supporters such as members of the Kwankwasiyya movement.
During the earlier rally, participants were seen singing Nigeria’s former national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots!”, despite its replacement in May 2024 with “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The series of protests highlights a growing divide within the ADC, raising concerns about the party’s cohesion as it prepares for future elections.