A new faction has emerged within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), further complicating the ongoing leadership crisis in the party.
Led by Don Norman Obinna, the group rejects the authority of both the Senator David Mark-led coalition and Nafiu Bala’s faction, claiming to represent the legitimate National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party.
According to a report by Africa Independent Television, the Obinna-led faction says it is stepping in to manage party affairs ahead of the next national convention.
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At a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, the faction argued that the tenure of former ADC National Chairman Ralph Nwosu, who handed control of the party to the David Mark group, expired in August 2022. The group noted that Nwosu subsequently faced multiple litigations for his failure to step down.
“The tenure of Ralph Nwosu had ended in August 2022, and afterwards, he faced a series of litigations due to his refusal to relinquish office,” the Obinna faction stated, asserting its legitimacy in managing party affairs.
The group also clarified the status of Nafiu Bala, noting that he “never held the position of National Vice Chairman,” and reaffirmed that former ADC presidential candidate Dumebi Kachikwu remains a member of the party.
According to the faction, new interim leaders have been appointed to oversee party activities and ensure continuity until the national convention is conducted. The Obinna-led group emphasizes that its intervention is necessary to stabilize the party amid ongoing litigation and internal disputes.
Political analyst, Dr. Chika Ume, commented on the development: “The emergence of a third faction within the ADC highlights the deep fractures within the party’s leadership. While this faction claims legitimacy, the dispute will likely continue in court and could affect the party’s performance in the 2027 elections.”
Another analyst, Ms. Funmi Adeyemi, noted, “Factionalism of this nature can confuse members and supporters, potentially weakening party cohesion. Resolving these disputes swiftly through internal dialogue or legal adjudication is crucial for the ADC to remain relevant on the national stage.”
As the ADC now navigates three competing factions, the party’s ability to present a unified front ahead of its next convention remains uncertain. Observers say the coming weeks will be critical in determining which faction can consolidate control and claim legitimacy.