Juliet Ezeh
A fresh wave of tension has engulfed the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a faction led by Nafiu Bala moves to unseat former Senate President David Mark from the party’s leadership.
The latest development follows a controversial Court of Appeal decision that has triggered competing interpretations and intensified the battle for control of the party.
According to analysis by Westbridge Reporters, the unfolding crisis highlights deeper structural divisions within the ADC that could significantly impact its political relevance ahead of the 2027 elections.
Power battle escalates after court ruling
The crisis took a dramatic turn after the Court of Appeal dismissed an appeal filed by Mark, ruling that it was procedurally flawed. The court also directed all parties to maintain the status quo pending the outcome of the main case.
However, rather than calming tensions, the ruling appears to have deepened divisions within the party.
Bala has since written to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), urging the electoral body to withdraw recognition from the current leadership and acknowledge him as the rightful national chairman.
Westbridge Reporters gathered that the move signals a strategic attempt by Bala’s camp to gain institutional backing while the legal battle remains unresolved.
Conflicting legal interpretations emerge
While Bala’s camp insists the ruling strengthens his claim, opposing legal voices argue the opposite.
Another legal submission to INEC cautioned against recognising any leadership change at this stage, warning that such a move could undermine ongoing judicial proceedings and destabilise the party further.
Analysts who spoke to Westbridge Reporters noted that the directive to maintain the status quo is open to legal interpretation, creating room for both factions to advance competing claims.
The situation has left INEC in a delicate position as it navigates between legal caution and political pressure.
Political accusations heighten uncertainty
As the legal battle unfolds, political tensions are rising.
Allegations have surfaced from within the ADC suggesting that external forces, including members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), may be attempting to influence the crisis.
The claims suggest a broader strategy to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections, potentially reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape.
However, the APC has strongly denied any involvement, dismissing the allegations as unfounded and politically motivated.
Why this crisis matters now
The ADC crisis is unfolding at a critical time when opposition alliances and party structures are beginning to take shape ahead of the next general elections.
Uncertainty over leadership could weaken the party’s ability to organise, mobilise supporters, and present credible candidates.
Westbridge Reporters understands that prolonged internal conflict may erode confidence among stakeholders and reduce the party’s chances of emerging as a strong opposition force.
All eyes on INEC
With both legal and political pressures mounting, attention is now firmly on INEC.
The commission’s next move could either stabilise the situation or further complicate an already fragile internal crisis.
For now, the battle for control of the ADC remains unresolved, with the final outcome likely to shape the party’s future and its role in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.