Nafiu Bala, factional national chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has confirmed that he attended the party’s July 2025 event where an interim leadership led by David Mark was unveiled, but maintained that the process lacked the consent of party members.

The confirmation follows the circulation of videos showing Bala at the event held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja.

The ADC has been embroiled in internal disputes since July 2025, when a coalition assumed control of the party, with Bala and the Mark-led group laying claim to its leadership.

The crisis triggered legal battles, prompting the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withdraw recognition of both factions, citing a March 12 judgment of the Court of Appeal.

Bala explained that the July 2, 2025 meeting was convened to adopt the ADC as a platform for coalition partners, not to unveil new party leaders.

“Contrary to expectations, the event took an unexpected turn when Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu, the then national chairman, was given the floor to deliver his welcome address,” he said.

“In a surprising move, he announced his resignation, issued membership cards to Senator David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola, and declared them acting national chairman and national secretary.”

Bala argued that the actions contravened provisions of the party’s constitution, which, according to him, does not empower an outgoing chairman to appoint successors.

“There was no formal vote or consensus on the appointments, and several members of the National Working Committee were taken aback by the developments,” he said.

He added that his presence at the meeting, as well as prior engagements with coalition partners, should not be interpreted as endorsement of the appointments.

Videos circulating online show Bala seated alongside party stakeholders, including Kenneth Okonkwo, during the event.

Bala further disclosed that the then national secretary, Sa’id Baba Abdullahi, resigned shortly after the announcement, noting that members of the party’s leadership were not informed in advance.

The ADC leadership dispute remains unresolved following INEC’s decision to withdraw recognition of both factions. (Guardian)