ADC Convention Proceeds Despite INEC De-recognition and Legal Challenges

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) recently concluded its national convention in Abuja, where delegates voted overwhelmingly to amend the party’s constitution, despite facing ongoing legal and administrative challenges. The convention proceeded even after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced it would not monitor the proceedings, citing a court ruling that complicated the party’s internal leadership dispute. This ruling led to INEC removing the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its official records as National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively, following a Court of Appeal judgment. Undeterred by these setbacks, the ADC continued with its congresses and convention.

During the National Executive Committee meeting, the Ralph Nwosu-led National Working Committee was dissolved immediately, with the David Mark-led NWC assuming full responsibility for the party’s affairs. This resolution was subsequently ratified by the convention. Speaking at the event, National Chairman David Mark described the gathering as an “excellent performance,” framing it as the beginning of the party’s journey toward the presidency in 2027. He stated, “Today marks the beginning of our journey to the Villa, and all of you here are part of this history.”

However, the convention was not without controversy. Party officials reported deliberate attempts to hinder their preparations, including complications with the venue and last-minute uncertainties. Despite these obstacles, the ADC asserted its right to assemble within the bounds of the law. During the convention, the party expelled factional chairman Nafiu Bala, lawmaker Leke Abejide, and several others for alleged anti-party activities and efforts to destabilize the organization.

Public affairs analyst Nduka Odo viewed the convention as a sign of renewed political courage, noting that the ADC’s decision to proceed despite challenges marks a departure from its previously passive stance. He urged the party to maintain this confrontational approach toward the ruling government and its institutions. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar took the opportunity to criticize INEC, alleging that the commission was being used to undermine Nigeria’s democracy. He called on the Federal Government to respect democratic processes and warned that the party would not allow what he described as “illegalities” to go unchallenged. Civil society representatives, including Olu Omotayo of the Civil Rights Realisation and Advancement Network, urged INEC to allow the courts to determine the legality of the convention rather than escalating political tensions through administrative directives.