The leadership crisis in the African Democratic Congress has intensified, as a faction of the party has asked the Independent National Electoral Commission to recognise a new leadership.
The group, led by Nafiu Bala, urged INEC to remove David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as the party’s chairman and secretary.
Court ruling sparks fresh battle
The request followed a recent decision by the Court of Appeal, which dismissed an appeal filed by David Mark.
The appeal challenged an earlier ruling by a Federal High Court in Abuja. However, the appellate court ruled that the case was procedurally defective.
The court also directed all parties to maintain the status quo until the main case is decided.
Bala pushes for recognition as chairman
After the ruling, Bala approached INEC through his lawyer. He asked the commission to recognise him as the national chairman of the party.
In his letter, Bala argued that the court order supports his position. He insisted that the current leadership should no longer be recognised.He also called on party members to remain calm while the legal process continues.
Legal opposition challenges Bala’s request
However, another legal practitioner advised INEC to reject Bala’s demand. He argued that recognising a new leader now could disrupt ongoing court proceedings.
According to him, the party should maintain its current structure until the court gives a final judgment.
Political tensions and allegations rise
Meanwhile, the crisis has taken a political turn. Some party members alleged that external forces are influencing the situation.
They claimed there is pressure on INEC to weaken the party ahead of future elections.
However, the All Progressives Congress denied the allegations.
A party official described the claims as baseless and urged the ADC to focus on resolving its internal issues.
Call for respect for court order
The APC also advised all parties to respect the court’s decision. It stressed that the status quo must be maintained until the case is resolved.
Observers say the situation remains uncertain as legal and political tensions continue to grow.
