The leadership battle within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) took a dramatic turn on Thursday as Nafiu Bala Gombe’s faction stormed the INEC headquarters in Abuja, demanding formal recognition as the party’s national chairman.
Gombe, alongside Kogi lawmaker Leke Abejide and hundreds of supporters, accused the rival David Mark-led faction of trying to hijack the party in violation of its constitution.
Addressing INEC officials, Gombe said:
”You cannot enter the ADC through the back door and overturn the rightful leadership. This party belongs to all Nigerians!”
Abejide added that the party’s rules are clear: members must serve at least two years before contesting for leadership positions. “These are hijackers, and INEC must restore Gombe as the legitimate chairman,” he stressed.
ADC Director of Youths, Mohammed Sahad, also called on INEC to go beyond obeying the court order by affirming Gombe’s leadership. INEC National Commissioner Abdullahi Abdu Zuru assured protesters that their concerns would be reviewed.
This protest comes a day after David Mark’s faction staged a rival #OccupyINEC demonstration, drawing prominent politicians and hundreds of supporters. Both events highlight the deepening rift in the ADC and raise questions about the party’s unity ahead of future elections.
- The cable