Fresh cracks have emerged within the African Democratic Congress as a new faction on Tuesday rejected the authority of a coalition linked to former Senate President, David Mark, intensifying the party’s internal leadership crisis.
The group, led by Don Norman Obinna, also distanced itself from another bloc associated with Nafiu Bala, declaring both camps illegitimate.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, the faction claimed it now represents the authentic National Executive Committee of the party and would take charge of its affairs pending the next national convention.
The development signals a deepening leadership tussle within the ADC, with multiple groups laying claim to control of the party’s structure ahead of future political alignments.
The Obinna-led faction further faulted the role played by former National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, arguing that his tenure lapsed in August 2022.
It alleged that Nwosu’s continued involvement in party matters after leaving office had triggered a series of legal disputes, particularly following his reported handover of party leadership to the Mark-led coalition.
The group also dismissed claims surrounding Bala’s position in the party, insisting he never served as National Vice Chairman.
Reaffirming its stance on party membership, the faction maintained that former presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu, remains a bona fide member of the ADC.
To stabilise the situation, the group announced the appointment of interim leaders to oversee party operations until a national convention is convened.
The latest development underscores growing instability within the opposition party, raising concerns over its cohesion as political realignments gather momentum ahead of future elections.