ADC Crisis: State Chairmen Align With INEC, Suspend Congresses as David Mark Faction Pushes Ahead
The ADC crisis deepens as a forum of state chairmen backs INEC’s directive to halt congresses, while the David Mark-led faction insists on proceeding, widening internal party divisions.
ABUJA
The internal crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has taken a new turn as the Forum of State Chairmen of the party declared support for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s directive to halt ongoing congresses nationwide.
Hon. Kingsley Ogga, who identified himself as the Kogi State Chairman of the party under the faction aligned with former Senate President David Mark, disclosed this position during a telephone interview with TheBells.Ng, stating that the forum had resolved to remain law-abiding by adhering strictly to INEC’s instructions.
Ogga said the decision reflects a collective position of state party leaders who believe that compliance with the electoral umpire is critical to preserving the party’s legitimacy amid ongoing leadership disputes.
“The position of the Forum of State Chairmen is clear—we must be law-abiding and comply with INEC’s directive. As a political party, we cannot operate outside the regulatory framework,” he said.
His remarks come against the backdrop of a deepening leadership tussle within the ADC, which has led to the emergence of parallel structures and conflicting directives over the conduct of congresses across several states.
INEC Directive and Party Division
INEC had earlier directed political parties to maintain the status quo, indicating that it would neither monitor nor recognise any congresses conducted under disputed or unclear leadership arrangements.
The directive was widely interpreted as a move to prevent further escalation of internal crises within parties, particularly the ADC, where rival factions have laid claim to the party’s national leadership.
While the Forum of State Chairmen has now publicly aligned with INEC, the development sharply contrasts with the position of the David Mark-led national leadership, which has insisted on proceeding with congresses as part of efforts to consolidate control of party structures.
This divergence has effectively exposed deep cracks within the party, raising concerns about the legitimacy of any congresses conducted outside INEC’s supervision.
Kogi ADC Suspends Congresses
In Kogi State, the situation has resulted in the immediate suspension of all ward, local government, and state congresses.
In a statement signed by Ogga, the state chapter confirmed that the decision was taken in compliance with INEC’s directive, emphasising the party’s commitment to due process and constitutional order.
“As a law-abiding political party, the ADC Kogi State Chapter fully aligns with INEC’s directive. All scheduled congresses at ward, local government, and state levels are hereby suspended,” the statement read.
He urged party members to remain calm and avoid actions capable of undermining unity or escalating tensions within the party.
Contrasting Signals from ADC Leadership
The latest development highlights growing confusion within the ADC, as different power blocs continue to issue conflicting directives.
Only recently, the party’s national leadership, through its spokesperson, had accused INEC of acting under pressure and taking sides in the internal dispute, while insisting that the party would proceed with its planned congresses and convention.
In a separate development, another factional spokesman had commended INEC for taking steps to remove what he described as “usurpers,” further underscoring the depth of division within the party.
Political analysts say the conflicting positions reflect a struggle for control ahead of future electoral cycles, with congresses seen as critical to determining party structures, delegate lists, and eventual candidates.
Implications for ADC and Electoral Process
Observers warn that the ongoing crisis could weaken the ADC’s standing as a viable opposition platform if not quickly resolved.
The refusal of some factions to align with INEC’s directive raises the possibility of legal battles, parallel congresses, and potential non-recognition of party officials—issues that have historically plagued political parties in Nigeria.
“The legitimacy of any party structure ultimately depends on INEC recognition. Any process conducted outside that framework risks being nullified,” a political analyst in Abuja noted.
There are also concerns that prolonged internal disputes could erode public confidence in the party, particularly at a time when opposition platforms are seeking to build momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Call for Calm Amid Uncertainty
Despite the tensions, the Forum of State Chairmen has called on party members nationwide to remain calm, united, and committed to democratic principles.
Ogga reiterated that further directives would be communicated in line with INEC’s position and ongoing consultations within the party.
For now, the ADC appears caught between compliance and defiance, as the battle for control continues to unfold—leaving its members and observers watching closely for the next decisive move.