ADC faces deepening crisis as state congresses stall
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is facing ongoing internal turmoil as leadership disputes and legal battles have disrupted its scheduled state congresses. Multiple factions, led by figures such as David Mark and Nafiu Gombe, are vying for control, resulting in court cases and conflicting directives across states. Some states have suspended congresses, while others insist on proceeding, highlighting the party's fragmentation. The crisis has led to interventions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the judiciary, further complicating the party's stability.
Key takeaways
- The ADC's state congresses scheduled for Saturday, April 11, 2026, have been stalled due to internal wrangling and legal hurdles.
- Three main factions, led by David Mark, Nafiu Gombe, and some state chairmen, are contesting the party's leadership, with INEC recently de-recognising the Mark-led National Working Committee.
- In Adamawa, a Yola High Court suspended congresses until the case's next hearing on April 15, 2026, following a suit by state chairman Shehu Yohanna.
- In Kaduna, a statement dated April 6, 2026, announced the postponement of congresses originally set to begin on April 7, with plans to reschedule to the first week of May.
- In Abia, a court order dated December 3, 2025, and a disciplinary report from September 25, 2025, have barred Don Obinna from acting as state chairman, reaffirming Kanu Kanu as acting chairman pending new congresses.
