A faction of the African Democratic Congress on Thursday staged a protest at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission in Abuja, intensifying the party’s ongoing leadership dispute.
The group, led by the party’s National Chairman, Nafiu Bala Gombe, arrived at the commission’s office alongside a Kogi State lawmaker, Leke Abejide, and a large number of supporters, calling on INEC to formally recognise their leadership.
Addressing INEC officials during the protest, Gombe accused a rival faction allegedly aligned with former Senate President David Mark of attempting to unlawfully take control of the party.
“We are here to insist that due process is followed. No one should be allowed to bypass laid-down procedures to seize control of the ADC,” Gombe said. “This party belongs to its members at all levels, and we will not allow external influence to undermine democratic structures.”
Also speaking, Abejide urged the electoral body to resist what he described as an illegitimate takeover, stressing that the ADC constitution clearly defines the requirements for leadership positions.
“You cannot join a political party and attempt to assume leadership immediately,” he said. “Our constitution stipulates that anyone aspiring to leadership must have been an active member for at least two years. INEC must uphold these rules and protect the integrity of the party.”
The party’s Director of Youth Mobilisation, Mohammed Sahad, commended INEC for complying with an existing court directive but insisted that further action was needed.
“We acknowledge that INEC has respected the court order, but it is important that the commission goes a step further by recognising Nafiu Bala Gombe as the legitimate national chairman,” Sahad stated.
Responding to the protesters, INEC National Commissioner Abdullahi Abdu Zuru assured the delegation that their grievances would be reviewed.
“On behalf of the commission, I assure you that your submission will be carefully considered, and appropriate feedback will be communicated,” Zuru said.
The protest comes barely a day after another faction of the party, reportedly led by David Mark, held a separate demonstration in Abuja under the banner of “#OccupyINEC,” accusing the electoral body of actions they claim threaten internal party democracy.
That protest, which took place at the Maitama area of the Federal Capital Territory, attracted several political figures and supporters, highlighting the widening division within the ADC.
The series of protests underscores the growing tension within the party, raising concerns about its cohesion and readiness ahead of future elections.
