ADC Denies Defection Rumours, Insists Coalition Remains Intact Amid Leadership Crisis

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has firmly dismissed reports suggesting it is considering abandoning its coalition to align with the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), stating that such claims are unfounded and speculative. The party reaffirmed its commitment to its existing coalition framework and ongoing legal battles, particularly those involving actions taken by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) against its leadership.

In a statement issued on Monday, the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, emphasised that the party remains focused on reversing what it described as an unlawful removal of its key officials from INEC’s official register. He stressed that the coalition leadership is not engaged in any discussions with other political parties and remains resolute in defending its position through legal means.

Leadership Dispute Deepens Internal Divisions

The ADC’s current challenges stem from a prolonged leadership crisis that has fragmented the party into multiple factions. The dispute traces back to disagreements over the tenure of former chairman Ralph Nwosu, whose exit in August 2022 triggered a succession battle. While Nwosu reportedly backed a transition plan extending to 2025, his deputy, Nafiu Gombe, insisted on assuming the role of acting chairman immediately after Nwosu’s departure.

The situation escalated further with the inauguration of a new National Working Committee in July under the leadership of David Mark. This move intensified factional disputes, leading to multiple legal battles across Nigeria’s appellate courts, including the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. These developments have raised concerns among political observers about the party’s readiness for the 2027 general elections.

Adding to the complexity, a separate faction aligned with the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu, announced the formation of a caretaker committee during a National Executive Committee meeting in Abuja. This group, led by Kingsley Ogga, represents a third bloc within the party, further highlighting the depth of internal divisions.

INEC Action and Legal Battle Intensify Tensions

The crisis took a significant turn on April 1 when Independent National Electoral Commission removed key ADC leaders, including David Mark and National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola, from its official register. INEC stated that the action was in compliance with a court order directing it to maintain the status quo pending a final ruling from the trial court.

In response, the Mark-led faction has vowed to challenge the decision, describing it as an infringement on democratic principles. Abdullahi reiterated that the party’s priority is to secure a reversal of the action through the judiciary, expressing confidence that Nigeria’s courts will uphold the rule of law despite ongoing political pressures.

He also rejected media reports suggesting that the party was exploring a merger or defection to the PRP, maintaining that the ADC remains committed to strengthening its coalition and potentially expanding it to include other opposition groups. According to him, any claims of an imminent defection are premature and should be disregarded.

ADC Commitment to Coalition and Democratic Principles

Despite the internal turmoil, the ADC leadership insists that its coalition remains intact and focused on broader political objectives. Abdullahi noted that the party views the current moment as critical for safeguarding Nigeria’s multiparty democracy, stressing that abandoning the coalition would undermine its responsibilities.

He added that while the party remains open to collaboration with other opposition forces, such engagements would be guided by strategic considerations rather than speculation. The leadership, he said, is determined to navigate the crisis without compromising its long-term political goals.

As the legal battles continue and internal factions vie for control, the ADC faces a defining period that could shape its future role in Nigeria’s political landscape. Observers will be closely watching how the party resolves its disputes and positions itself ahead of the next general election cycle.