Nafiu Bala, a factional national chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has confirmed that he attended the meeting in July 2025 when the party’s interim leadership, led by former Senate President David Mark, was installed.
Bala explained that the meeting marked the beginning of an internal crisis in the ADC, which has since resulted in the party splitting into two factions: one led by David Mark and the other by Bala himself.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recently announced that it will not recognize either faction as the legitimate leadership of the party. This decision followed a ruling by the Court of Appeal on March 12, which also refused to validate either group.
On Monday, videos showing Bala at the ADC meeting began circulating widely on social media, sparking discussions among party members and political observers.
In response, Bala released a statement on Tuesday clarifying the circumstances of the meeting.
He said there was no deal or agreement made to select David Mark as the interim leader during the session.
According to Bala, “Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu, the former National Chairman, was given a chance to speak, and he surprised everyone by announcing his resignation as National Chairman.
He then gave membership cards to Senator David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola and appointed them Acting National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively.”
Bala emphasized that Nwosu’s actions went against the ADC Constitution, specifically Articles 8(2) and 9(4) of the 2022 constitution, as amended.
The constitution clearly does not allow an outgoing chairman to appoint a successor, Bala said, adding that the move was irregular and unconstitutional.
The leadership dispute has created tension within the party, with both factions claiming legitimacy.
Bala’s statement comes as the party faces scrutiny from both the public and the electoral authorities, who are concerned about the ongoing internal divisions.
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