A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by Nafiu Bala has rejected the expulsion of lawmaker Leke Abejide, calling the move an illegitimate attempt to hijack the party’s structures. The expulsion was ratified by a National Working Committee (NWC) loyal to Senator David Mark and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, deepening an ongoing crisis within the ADC that features opposing factions and conflicting claims of legitimacy.
Dr Christopher Okechukwu, Director of Media and Public Affairs for the Bala‑led faction, said the expulsion was a desperate attempt by individuals whose actions run contrary to the party’s values and principles. He argued that the group’s conduct demonstrated a lack of genuine commitment to the party’s growth and development.
Abejide, a two‑term federal lawmaker, was expelled after weeks of hostilities and parallel meetings within the party. The Bala faction strongly condemned the self‑appointed members of the NWC for interfering in party affairs, with Okechukwu insisting that the Atiku‑ and El‑Rufai‑backed NWC lacks the standing to punish a bona fide member.
The expulsion was announced by ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi, who cited alleged “serial acts of indiscipline” as the reason and urged the Speaker of the House of Representatives to declare Abejide’s seat vacant. In response, Abejide denounced the effort to unseat him as a malicious move by individuals who “no longer have legal standing in the ADC.”
The ADC crisis continues to cast uncertainty over the party’s cohesion, as both camps press ahead with parallel activities in the lead‑up to upcoming congresses. The Bala‑led faction remains resolute in opposing the expulsions and reaffirming its dedication to upholding the integrity and democratic processes of the ADC. As the party navigates this challenging period, the outcome of the forthcoming congresses will have significant implications for its future direction and stability.
Comments are closed for this story.