A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by Nafiu Bala Gombe has blamed the party’s poor performance in the 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections on alleged violations of due process by coalition partners. Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Gombe expressed disappointment that elements within the coalition operated outside the party’s constitutional framework, contributing to the electoral defeat.
Gombe formally disassociated his camp from a recent international press conference conducted by individuals he described as “so-called opposition elements” posing as ADC stakeholders. “The Authentic National Leadership of the African Democratic Congress distances itself entirely from the international press conference held by these factions. They do not speak for our party,” he stated.
He criticized a faction led by former Senate President David Mark for accusing the National Assembly of overreach concerning the 2027 Electoral Act. Gombe defended the legislature, arguing it is constitutionally empowered to enact electoral laws. “Accusing them of performing their duty is misguided. Rather than attacking the legislature, our coalition partners should focus on normalizing and formalizing their relationship with our great party,” he added.
According to Gombe, the international community has ignored appeals from these dissident groups due to their undemocratic conduct and internal power struggles. He asserted that such behavior undermines their credibility. “Your power mongering and refusal to reconcile aspirations for the betterment of the country are the main reasons the international community ignores your appeals,” he said.
Gombe called on genuine ADC members and unselfish coalition partners to re-register at party ward offices nationwide to strengthen the party’s structure. He emphasized that politics should center on service, not personal ambition. “We urge you to come back home. Help us rebuild and salvage this nation from the grassroots. The Authentic ADC remains the vehicle for true change in Nigeria,” he concluded.
The statements highlight deepening internal divisions within the ADC ahead of the 2027 general election cycle, underscoring challenges the party faces in consolidating its national presence and presenting a unified front.
