ADC Crisis Deepens as Lawyer Questions INEC Powers, Aregbesola, Mark and Obi Clash Over Party Control

Nigeria’s political tension around the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has escalated, with fresh arguments over who truly controls the party and whether the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has any legal role in settling its leadership dispute.

A legal practitioner, Nura Ahmad Muhammad, has stated that INEC lacks constitutional authority to determine the leadership of any political party, insisting that such disputes remain strictly within the jurisdiction of the courts.

He explained that internal party crises are common in Nigeria’s political system and are usually governed by party constitutions, but disagreements in interpretation often push such matters into prolonged litigation.

Muhammad stressed that since the ADC leadership dispute is already before the courts, all factions are expected to maintain the status quo until a final judicial determination is reached. He also cited constitutional and electoral provisions limiting INEC’s role to oversight rather than intervention in party leadership matters.

The controversy stems from rival ADC factions loyal to David Mark and Nafiu Bala, both laying claim to the party’s national leadership structure, a dispute that has further fractured the opposition party.

Amid the legal and political uncertainty, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi accused INEC of mishandling the situation, suggesting possible external influence in the commission’s actions.

At the grassroots level, some party members in Kano have also expressed frustration, alleging internal sabotage and warning that continued division could weaken the party’s future relevance.

The crisis unfolded alongside a national convention held by the Mark-led faction on Tuesday, despite questions over its recognition by INEC. The event quickly became a platform for strong political statements from key party leaders.

National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola defended the convention’s legitimacy, insisting that all procedures were followed and that INEC had been duly informed of earlier decisions that reshaped the party’s leadership structure.

He maintained that no former official of the dissolved National Working Committee retains any claim to office, describing the situation as a settled internal process that should not be reversed.

Aregbesola also criticised INEC for not monitoring the convention, alleging selective enforcement of duties and warning against actions that could weaken opposition politics in the country.

Former Senate President and ADC national chairman David Mark, in his remarks, said the party would not yield to what he described as growing authoritarian tendencies, insisting that ADC remains committed to political resistance and democratic ideals.

Peter Obi also weighed in on national issues during the event, warning that Nigeria’s worsening insecurity and rising debt profile could push the country toward deeper crisis if urgent reforms are not implemented.

As competing factions, legal interpretations, and political accusations continue to pile up, the ADC faces one of its most defining internal battles ahead of the next electoral cycle.