The ongoing leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) took a significant turn as Nafiu Bala, the party’s Deputy National Chairman, officially resumed office as the authentic National Chairman. Speaking to the press during his resumption, Bala cited the Electoral Act and the ADC constitution, which stipulate that the Deputy National Chairman assumes leadership upon the voluntary resignation of the National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu.
Bala reaffirmed that Nwosu’s resignation triggered a legitimate transfer of authority to him and dismissed any claims of leadership change or his suspension as baseless. He accused coalition leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, of attempting to hijack the party.
He emphasized that the party leadership is unaware of any other changes and insists on continuity under his stewardship. Bala urged supporters and the public to recognize his leadership in line with the party’s constitution.
The controversy began when Nwosu resigned to align with the opposition coalition adopting ADC, and David Mark was subsequently appointed as Interim National Chairman. Bala’s declaration challenges this, asserting his constitutional right to lead.
The North-East caucus of the ADC has also publicly endorsed Bala’s leadership, describing him as the rightful acting National Chairman and condemning attempts by certain individuals to create confusion and undermine party unity.
This development highlights the internal divisions within the ADC as the party grapples with leadership disputes in the run-up to forthcoming elections.