By Abubakar Ojima-ojo
A faction of the African Democratic Congress on Thursday urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to recognise Nafiu Bala as the party’s National Chairman.
The group also demanded that his name be uploaded on the commission’s portal ahead of the 2027 general election.
Bala made the call during a peaceful rally at INEC headquarters in Abuja, insisting that the move was in line with a subsisting Court of Appeal order.
“As I speak today, I urge that my name be placed on the portal as required by the status quo order of the Court of Appeal,” he said.
“This is not just a personal request; it is a plea for justice, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law.”
He added that the party must restore order and stability while focusing on the democratic aspirations of Nigerians.
“We must emerge stronger, more united, and more committed to the ideals that bind us together,” Bala stated.
The crisis within the ADC has deepened following conflicting interpretations of a court directive on the party’s leadership structure.
Bala’s faction maintained that the appellate court ordered all parties to maintain the status quo as of April 2023, a position it said supports its claim to legitimacy.
However, another faction reportedly aligned with David Mark dismissed the interpretation, describing it as mischievous and capable of paralysing party operations.
The dispute has further escalated with disagreements over internal processes, including conventions and congresses.
Bala argued that the controversy goes beyond party politics and touches on respect for the rule of law and democratic principles.
“This conflict reflects a deeper issue — respect for the rule of law and the principles guiding democratic governance,” he said.
He also cited alleged constitutional breaches within the party, including disputed leadership changes and failure to comply with procedural requirements.
“Between 2023 and 2025, our party has faced a leadership crisis stemming from disputed leadership changes,” he added.
Responding, INEC said it would review the request.
Speaking on behalf of the commission, National Commissioner, North-West Zone, Professor Abdullahi Abdu Zuru, said, “I believe INEC as a commission will look into this and revert. Thank you very much.”
