The Independent National Electoral Commission (Independent National Electoral Commission) has suspended its recognition of David Mark as National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), following a court order tied to an ongoing leadership dispute within the party.
INEC also removed Rauf Aregbesola as the party’s National Secretary from its official portal, citing a directive from the Court of Appeal to maintain the status quo pending the resolution of the case.
The crisis dates back to May 2025, when some party executives reportedly resigned, paving the way for the emergence of Mark and Aregbesola in new leadership roles. However, a faction led by Nafiu Bala Gombe challenged the process, insisting he never stepped down and subsequently filed a lawsuit contesting the changes.
Reacting to INEC’s decision, the ADC’s publicity secretary described the move as politically motivated, alleging interference by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The party linked the development to recent political shifts, including the defection of Rabiu Kwankwaso to the ADC.
Meanwhile, small-scale protests were reported in Abuja on April 2, with demonstrators calling for the protection of democratic principles and the independence of political institutions.
The dispute is expected to remain in court as stakeholders await a final judicial determination on the party’s leadership structure.
