ADC Crisis Deepens Ahead of 2027 as Okonkwo Alleges Plot, Rival Faction Disagrees

Internal divisions within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have intensified, with opposing factions locked in a dispute over leadership, legal interpretations, and the involvement of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), raising concerns about the party’s stability before the 2027 elections.

The disagreement centres on differing readings of a Court of Appeal order to maintain the status quo, as well as rival claims to the party’s national leadership.

Party stalwart Kenneth Okonkwo claimed the crisis may be driven by a deliberate attempt to weaken the ADC.

“It is very ridiculous for a man… to go to court to challenge the leadership of ADC,” he said, pointing out that a key figure behind the legal challenge had earlier exited the party.

Okonkwo maintained that INEC’s recognition of a leadership structure led by David Mark remains valid, adding that “once INEC recognises you, you cannot use an interlocutory injunction to stop an action already executed.”

Explaining his interpretation of the court directive, he said: “Maintaining status quo means you should not do anything that will disadvantage either party. INEC has already recognised us… what the court said confirmed our leadership.”

He dismissed contrary claims, insisting that “status quo means there is a national leadership in place.”

He also criticised the legal framework of the opposing camp, noting that “originating summons is used when facts are not in dispute,” and stressed that allegations such as coercion require full legal proceedings.

Okonkwo further alleged attempts to influence INEC, warning: “If INEC does that, then know that APC influenced it… they are using these letters to mount pressure.”

He urged all sides to respect judicial processes, stating: “Allow the court to decide. All these letters and propaganda should not replace due process.”

In contrast, Acting National Publicity Secretary Bashir Abdul-Mohammed said the dispute stems from an unlawful seizure of power within the party.

“We are not in a banana republic… we are all subject to the law,” he said, emphasising that the ADC constitution provides clear guidance on leadership succession.

According to him, “when a national chairman resigns, the deputy national chairman takes over,” affirming that Nafiu Bala is the legitimate acting chairman.

He described the rival group as “usurpers temporarily sojourning and holding power,” noting that their legitimacy is being challenged in court.

Offering a different interpretation of the appellate ruling, Abdul-Mohammed said: “Status quo ante bellum simply means the state of affairs should return to how it was before the dispute… the national chairman is Nafiu Bala.”

He accused INEC of failing to comply with court orders, stating that it is “flagrantly and blatantly disobeying court orders,” and warned that legal action for contempt may be pursued.

The spokesman also rejected as fabricated a resignation letter allegedly linked to Bala. “Let me dismiss it outright. This is forged. This is not his signature,” he said, adding that the matter is already before the court.

Dismissing claims of political backing, he maintained that the faction’s actions are aimed at defending due process, while urging INEC to correct its records and formally recognise Bala’s leadership.

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