ADC Convention INEC Crisis deepens as party defies INEC, reshuffles leadership, and holds national convention in Abuja
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Tuesday concluded its national convention in Abuja amid heightened political tension with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), proceeding with constitutional amendments, leadership restructuring, and strong declarations of political ambition despite regulatory uncertainty.
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ADC Convention Faces INEC Tension escalated after delegates overwhelmingly voted to amend the party’s constitution and endorsed sweeping organisational changes during the gathering held in the Federal Capital Territory.
The convention also ratified the dissolution of the Ralph Nwosu-led National Working Committee, replacing it with a new leadership structure under former Senate President David Mark, who now assumes control of the party’s national affairs.
David Mark described the gathering as a defining moment for the opposition party, declaring it the beginning of ADC’s political journey toward the 2027 general elections.
“Today marks the beginning of our journey to the Villa, and all of you here are part of this history,” Mark said, signalling the party’s ambition to challenge for national power.
Tensions surrounding the ADC Convention INEC Crisis intensified in the days leading up to the event after INEC reportedly distanced itself from monitoring ADC congresses, citing a court ruling linked to internal leadership disputes within the party.
Despite the regulatory uncertainty, party leaders proceeded with state congresses and the national convention, insisting on their constitutional right to organise internal activities.
The party also announced the expulsion of several members, including factional chairman Nafiu Bala and House of Representatives member Leke Abejide, citing alleged anti-party activities and attempts to destabilise its internal structure.
Other expelled members included factional leader Kingsley Temitope and several party figures accused of contributing to internal discord.
Chieftain Dino Melaye, speaking at the convention, insisted that no external pressure or institutional challenge could derail the event, describing attempts to disrupt the venue arrangements as unsuccessful.
Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar accused INEC of undermining democratic processes, alleging institutional bias and warning of broader consequences for Nigeria’s political stability.
Political analysts said the ADC’s decision to proceed despite challenges signalled a more assertive posture from the opposition party, though they warned that internal cohesion and institutional relations remain critical to its long-term success.
However, governance advocates and civil society voices urged caution, calling on INEC and other stakeholders to avoid actions that could further heighten political tension and to allow ongoing legal processes to determine disputed issues.
Also read: ADC Faction Suspends Atiku Abubakar in Shocking Party Crisis
ADC Convention INEC Crisis now places the party at the centre of a broader national debate over electoral regulation, party autonomy, and the boundaries of institutional authority in Nigeria’s evolving democracy.
