By: Daure David, Political Correspondence
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has been plunged deeper into crisis following a dramatic declaration by Honourable Nafiu Bala, the party’s Gombe State Governorship Candidate during the 2023 general elections, who has named himself the Interim National Chairman of the party.
Speaking during a press briefing held on Thursday in Abuja, Bala cited a breakdown of constitutional leadership within the ADC, blaming what he called “political hooligans” for orchestrating the party’s current turmoil. He claimed that several party leaders had relinquished their constitutional duties and handed over control of the party to “powerful outsiders” lacking any genuine affiliation with the ADC.
Bala, who asserted his position as the duly elected National Deputy Chairman, announced,
“I now assume my constitutional duty and responsibility as the Interim National Chairman of our great party.”
He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to acknowledge the leadership transition and to protect the integrity of the ADC’s internal processes.
In his lengthy and impassioned speech, Bala described the leadership crisis as a “show of shame,” accusing unnamed former party officials of committing “acts of lawlessness” and engaging in unconstitutional conduct. He decried the alleged replacement of legitimate party figures with political outsiders, likening it to a “shoddily rehearsed political melodrama.”
Bala emphasized his resolve to uphold the party’s constitutional provisions on succession and internal governance, warning that any continued defiance would be met with legal action.
“We shall proceed with gusto to challenge these gross acts of impunity in the courts and bring them to justice,” he stated.
He concluded with a renewed pledge to restore transparency and order to the ADC, reaffirming that all party members must adhere to the laid-down rules and principles that govern the organization.
The ADC’s national leadership is yet to issue a formal response to Bala’s declaration. Political observers suggest that this development could signal a prolonged internal battle over control and direction of the party, with possible implications for upcoming elections.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds across Nigeria’s political landscape.
