INEC Freezes ADC Leadership Dispute, Removes David Mark-Led NWC from Portal

INEC Freezes ADC Leadership Dispute, Removes David Mark-Led NWC from Portal

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a temporary freeze on all activities and communications relating to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) amid an ongoing leadership crisis rocking the party.

ALSO READ: EFCC Arrests Hajia Adama Ahmed Adamu Over Alleged ₦288 Million Property Fraud in Abuja

The electoral body disclosed this on Tuesday after receiving conflicting legal correspondences from parties laying claim to the leadership of the ADC, particularly involving Nafiu Bala Gombe and David Mark.

While one legal team urged INEC not to recognise Gombe as acting national chairman due to a pending suit before the Federal High Court, another demanded the enforcement of a Court of Appeal judgment that challenged the legitimacy of the Mark-led leadership.

INEC said the development followed its review of the judgment of the Court of Appeal in Appeal No. CA/ABJ/145/2026, which directed all parties to maintain the status quo pending the determination of the substantive suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Commission Takes Neutral Position

In a resolution reached at its March 31, 2026 meeting, the Commission said it would strictly comply with the court’s directive by maintaining the “status quo ante bellum”—the situation as it existed before the dispute escalated.

As part of the decision, INEC announced it would:

Remove the names of the current National Working Committee (NWC) led by David Mark from its official portal

Decline to recognise Nafiu Bala Gombe as acting national chairman pending court determination

Suspend all dealings, correspondence, and recognition of any faction within the ADC

Refrain from monitoring or recognising any meetings, congresses, or conventions organised by any group within the party

The Commission emphasised that these measures were necessary to avoid taking actions that could prejudice the outcome of the case or undermine judicial proceedings.

Legal Battle at the Core

The dispute stems from a leadership tussle within the ADC following the resignation of former chairman Ralph Okey Nwosu and the emergence of a new NWC led by David Mark in July 2025.

However, Nafiu Bala Gombe, who served as Vice National Chairman, has challenged the process in court, insisting he should automatically assume leadership based on the party’s constitution.

The matter is currently before the Federal High Court in Abuja, with multiple motions and appeals filed by both parties.

INEC Reaffirms Commitment to Rule of Law

INEC reiterated its commitment to neutrality, rule of law, and adherence to judicial pronouncements, stressing that its actions were guided solely by the need to preserve the integrity of the legal process.

The Commission also urged political parties and stakeholders to act responsibly and avoid actions that could disrupt preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The leadership crisis within the ADC remains unresolved, with the final decision now resting on the outcome of the pending court proceedings.

INEC Freezes ADC Leadership Dispute, Removes David Mark-Led NWC from Portal