ADC Forges Ahead: Nwosu Reaffirms Commitment to Convention Amidst Leadership Tussle

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) remains steadfast in its preparations for upcoming conventions and congresses, refusing to be sidetracked by an enduring leadership crisis that has drawn in Nigeria's electoral umpire. Ralph Nwosu, a prominent chieftain and founder of the ADC, declared the party's unwavering resolve to proceed with its 2027 general elections agenda, regardless of recent pronouncements from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Defying Electoral Commission's Stance

Speaking on Channels Television’s 'The Morning Brief' on Thursday, Nwosu emphasized that the ADC is taking all necessary legal and administrative steps to address the internal disputes. "We are taking the necessary action both in court and with INEC, but we will not allow INEC to derail any of our programmes," he stated. Nwosu recounted that following an "unfortunate" INEC release, the party's leadership convened and collectively decided to press forward.

He highlighted that the ADC had submitted its programme to INEC in compliance with electoral laws, receiving endorsement for all scheduled dates. "By the electoral law, whether they show up or not is their own volition; we have not violated anything," Nwosu asserted. He confirmed that party congresses have already commenced, with the national convention set for the 14th of the month, where all conducted activities will be ratified. The party is determined to attract "mission-driven leaders" and reject "opportunists."

Nwosu also indicated that ADC would formally inform INEC of its upcoming national convention, crucial for selecting its presidential and other general candidates. Should INEC decline to accept their notifications, the party is prepared to publicize its programmes through all Nigerian media outlets, appealing directly to the public.

The Genesis of ADC's Internal Strife

Nwosu’s remarks come amidst a complex leadership imbroglio within the ADC, which ignited following his resignation as the Chairman of the ADC National Working Committee (NWC) in July 2025. This resignation initially paved the way for the party to be adopted by an opposition coalition as a formidable platform to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming general elections.

However, the transition quickly descended into contention when Nafiu Bala, then the former Vice National Chairman of the ADC, asserted his automatic right to assume the party’s chairmanship post-Nwosu’s departure. Bala subsequently sought legal redress at the Federal High Court in Abuja, requesting an ex parte injunction to prevent members of the faction led by 'Mark' (the Mark-led group) from identifying themselves as the legitimate party leaders.

Judicial Interventions and INEC's Controversial Verdict

The legal saga saw Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, during a September 4, 2025 hearing, mandate that respondents be duly notified of the motion. Subsequently, on December 18, 2025, Mark, as the second defendant, lodged an appeal against this order. Yet, in a recent development last month, the Court of Appeal in Abuja dismissed Mark’s appeal, further complicating the party's leadership structure.

In response to the appellate court's verdict, INEC announced its decision to maintain the status quo ante bellum, meaning the state of affairs existing before September 2, 2025, when the initial case was filed. The electoral body declared it would not recognize either the Bala-led or the Mark-led group until the Federal High Court delivers a final judgment on the matter, even proceeding to remove Mark’s name from its official portal.

ADC Accuses INEC of Undermining Democracy and Bias

INEC’s pronouncement drew swift and vehement condemnation from the ADC, which accused the agency of actively undermining democratic principles and demonstrating clear partisan bias. Mark, representing the faction, expressed deep distrust in the electoral umpire's impartiality:

• "We demand the immediate resignation or sack of the INEC Chairman and all National Commissioners. We are convinced they are incapable of conducting any credible election."

• "The only conclusion Nigerians can draw is that the electoral umpire has taken sides and can no longer be trusted."

Opposition Leaders Protest Alleged One-Party State Plot

The indignation culminated in a large-scale protest on Wednesday at the INEC headquarters in Abuja. Prominent figures from various opposition parties, including Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, Aminu Tambuwal, and Rauf Aregbesola, joined ADC leaders and members. They collectively demanded a reversal of INEC’s decision and the resignation of the INEC Chairman.

Protesters further alleged that President Bola Tinubu was orchestrating a plot to transform Nigeria into a one-party state, a scheme they claimed INEC was facilitating by suppressing the ADC.

Presidency and INEC Refute Allegations

Both the Presidency and INEC have vehemently denied these allegations, urging opposition parties to adhere to established rules and procedures. Presidential spokesman, Sunday Dare, addressed the accusations on Channels Television’s 'Politics Today' on Wednesday, stating:

"There is no design, whether covertly or overtly, to have just the APC on the ballot. We have 21 parties registered to compete on the ballot; every party has the right to field a candidate."

The ongoing power struggle within the ADC, combined with its high-profile clash with INEC, sets a contentious stage for Nigeria’s political landscape as the nation inches closer to the 2027 general elections.