- preliminary contacts began as tensions over the party’s leadership remain unresolved
- some senior ADC members have advanced discussions with the NDC as a backup plan
- Presidential spokesperson Sunday Dare also dismissed allegations of interference
The internal turmoil within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has escalated, with reports suggesting that some high-ranking members are quietly exploring the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as an alternative platform ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to Eko Hot Blog, insiders say these preliminary contacts began as tensions over the party’s leadership remain unresolved.
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At the heart of the dispute is Nafiu Bala Gombe, the ADC’s former Deputy National Chairman, who is currently seeking legal recognition as the party’s National Chairman. His claim is being strongly opposed by the existing leadership.
Records linked to the controversy indicate that Gombe had previously tendered a resignation letter dated May 17, 2025, stating his intention to step aside to allow for a smoother restructuring and coalition process within the party. The ADC subsequently notified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which acknowledged the communication.
Later, on July 29, 2025, the party convened a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting at Chelsea Hotel in Abuja, attended by INEC officials. At that meeting, former Senate President David Mark was confirmed as National Chairman, while Rauf Aregbesola emerged as National Secretary. INEC later updated its records to reflect this leadership arrangement.
Despite being listed among attendees at the meeting, Gombe later approached the Federal High Court in Abuja to challenge the outcome. His legal team argued that the resignation letter attributed to him was falsified.
However, the party leadership has dismissed this allegation, maintaining that the resignation was authentic. Observers also note that no formal police complaint has been made regarding the alleged forgery.
INEC’s role in the situation has drawn scrutiny. After initially recognising the new leadership following the NEC meeting, the commission reversed its position in April 2026, citing a preservation order from the Court of Appeal obtained by Gombe’s lawyers.
INEC has since argued in a sworn affidavit that court injunctions should not apply to actions already completed, emphasizing that leadership disputes within political parties are internal matters.
The commission’s shift from recognition to suspension has raised concerns among analysts.
Meanwhile, sources indicate that some senior ADC members have advanced discussions with the NDC as a backup plan should the leadership crisis remain unresolved. Although no formal move has been announced, insiders suggest the talks have progressed significantly.
One source reportedly noted that while members are reluctant to abandon the party, they are unwilling to remain passive as the situation deteriorates.
NDC National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, has publicly presented his party as a viable option for politicians affected by instability elsewhere. He stated that the party is open to Nigerians seeking change, including those displaced by ongoing political developments.
Dickson also cautioned against the weakening of opposition parties, warning that it could undermine Nigeria’s democracy. He stressed that a healthy democratic system requires a strong opposition and urged INEC to remain impartial in handling such disputes.
On its part, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has denied any involvement in the crisis within the ADC. APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, described the situation as purely an internal issue stemming from the party’s own challenges.
Similarly, APC National Secretary Ajibola Basiru rejected claims that the ruling party is contributing to instability among opposition groups, noting that multiple political parties remain registered and active in Nigeria.
Presidential spokesperson Sunday Dare also dismissed allegations of interference, stating that the government remains focused on governance and that the democratic space is open to all political actors.
However, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi has accused the ruling party of attempting to weaken opposition platforms, warning that continued instability could push the country toward a one-party system.
The APC has not directly responded to these specific claims beyond its general denials.
The ongoing leadership crisis comes at a critical time for the ADC as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum. With party primaries expected soon, there are growing concerns that the unresolved conflict could lead to legal and procedural complications.
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