Breaking: Internal pressure mounts as ADC considers leadership shift to Ralph Nwosu

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) may be heading for a major leadership transition, as insiders indicate that interim national chairman David Mark could step aside, allowing former party chairman Ralph Nwosu to take charge of the party’s leadership process ahead of its proposed national convention.

The potential change comes amid ongoing internal disputes over the legality of the current leadership structure, following recent interventions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Sources familiar with the discussions, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the move is intended to stabilise the party and enable the convention to proceed under a familiar and widely accepted figure.

Nwosu, who previously handed over party leadership to Mark, is expected to supervise the upcoming convention and work to resolve internal tensions, particularly as the party positions itself for the 2027 general elections.

The development has already triggered reactions across political circles, with analysts noting that it could alter alliances and party dynamics ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Earlier, the ADC had challenged INEC’s interpretation of a Court of Appeal order, accusing the commission of misrepresenting the court’s “maintain status quo” directive.

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In a statement by National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said INEC overstepped its constitutional mandate and stressed that internal activities such as congresses and the national convention remain lawful.

“No court order has barred the ADC from proceeding with its scheduled programmes,” the statement read, reaffirming the party’s position that its internal processes are fully protected under Nigerian law.

As the ADC navigates these leadership changes, attention is now on how the party will manage internal reconciliation and maintain cohesion ahead of its national convention, which could have significant implications for its political standing in the coming elections.