Rival chairman insists move lacks legal backing, cites ongoing court case as party crisis deepens ahead of 2027 elections

The internal crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has escalated sharply, with factional National Chairman, Nafiu Bala Gombe, rejecting his reported suspension by a rival group aligned with former Senate President, David Mark.

Bala dismissed the move as unlawful and without merit, arguing that the Mark-led faction lacks the constitutional authority to discipline him or any legitimate party official. He further claimed that those orchestrating the suspension are not duly recognized members of the ADC, and therefore have no legal standing within the party’s structure.

According to Bala, the leadership dispute is already before a competent court of law, making any disciplinary action taken by either faction premature and a clear breach of due process. He warned that decisions made while the matter is sub judice could ultimately be declared null and void.

The controversy stems from a parallel national convention reportedly convened by the Mark faction, where Bala and several others were expelled over allegations of anti-party activities. However, Bala’s camp has firmly rejected the outcome, describing the gathering as illegitimate and in violation of existing court orders.

Doubling down on his position, Bala vowed to challenge the suspension through all available legal channels, cautioning that the intensifying leadership tussle could further destabilize the party at a critical time.

With multiple factions laying claim to authority and legal battles unresolved, the ADC now faces deepening uncertainty—raising concerns about its cohesion and readiness ahead of the 2027 general elections.