The leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has deepened as the faction led by Nafiu Bala Gombe formally urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognise him as the authentic leader of the party, citing an existing court order and ongoing legal proceedings.
Gombe made the call on Friday while reacting to INEC’s recent position on the internal leadership dispute within the party. In a statement released to journalists, he appealed to the electoral commission to respect the rule of law by maintaining the status quo pending the determination of the substantive matter before the court.
The development comes amid growing tension within the ADC following the emergence of multiple factions laying claim to the party’s national leadership. The dispute has drawn attention from political stakeholders, legal observers, and party members across the country, particularly as Nigeria gradually moves toward future electoral activities.
According to Gombe, the Appeal Court had already issued a directive restraining actions that could undermine the ongoing legal proceedings. He specifically referenced the order with suit number CA/ABJ/145/2026, which he said instructed INEC to avoid any step capable of rendering the court process meaningless.
Gombe emphasised that adherence to the court directive would ensure stability within the party and prevent further escalation of the crisis. He also argued that the commission, as an independent constitutional body, must remain neutral and uphold judicial decisions.
“We call on INEC to respect the status quo as it stood on September 2, 2025, to adhere strictly to the African Democratic Congress constitution, and to comply fully with the court order by allowing Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe to take over the leadership of the party in line with the party’s constitution,” the statement read.
He further noted that compliance with the court order would strengthen democratic values within political parties and reinforce confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions. According to him, internal party democracy is essential to the overall health of the country’s political system, and any disregard for court orders could undermine public trust.
The faction also welcomed INEC’s decision not to recognise the rival group led by David Mark, a former Senate President and prominent political figure. Gombe described the development as a positive step that aligns with the court’s directive and reinforces the need for due process.
“We also welcome INEC’s decision not to recognize the faction led by His Excellency Senator David Mark, and we reiterate our unwavering commitment to a better Nigeria and a fully democratic dispensation,” Gombe added.
The crisis within the ADC has been simmering for months, with both factions claiming legitimacy and control over the party’s structure. Analysts say the leadership dispute could have broader implications for the party’s future, particularly as political alliances and realignments continue to shape Nigeria’s political landscape.
Observers also note that the situation reflects a recurring challenge within Nigerian political parties, where leadership disagreements often result in legal battles and factional divisions. Such disputes sometimes affect party cohesion, weaken organisational capacity, and influence electoral performance.
Legal experts have indicated that the Appeal Court’s directive is significant, as it aims to preserve the integrity of the judicial process while the substantive case is being heard. They explained that maintaining the status quo is a common legal principle used to prevent actions that could complicate or invalidate court proceedings.
Meanwhile, political stakeholders have urged all parties involved in the dispute to remain calm and allow the judicial process to run its course. Some analysts warn that prolonged leadership crises could discourage supporters and weaken the party’s influence within Nigeria’s multiparty political system.
INEC has yet to issue a detailed response to Gombe’s latest appeal, although the commission has consistently maintained its commitment to neutrality and adherence to the law. The electoral body has previously emphasised that it recognises party leadership based on legal documentation, court rulings, and constitutional provisions.
The ADC, founded as part of Nigeria’s growing political alternatives, has positioned itself as a platform for democratic reforms and governance improvements. However, the ongoing leadership dispute threatens to overshadow its objectives and create uncertainty among members and supporters.
Political observers believe that the eventual court ruling will play a decisive role in determining the party’s leadership structure. Until then, both factions are expected to continue lobbying stakeholders and strengthening their positions.
Gombe reiterated his faction’s commitment to democratic principles, stressing that the dispute is not about personal ambition but about safeguarding the party’s constitution and democratic ideals.
He also called on party members nationwide to remain calm and united, assuring them that the matter would be resolved through lawful means. According to him, adherence to legal processes is the best way to preserve unity and maintain the credibility of the party.
As the situation unfolds, attention remains focused on INEC and the judiciary, whose decisions are expected to shape the future of the ADC. The outcome may also influence broader political dynamics, particularly as Nigeria continues to navigate complex party alignments and democratic consolidation.
For now, the Nafiu Bala Gombe faction remains firm in its demand for recognition, while awaiting the court’s final determination on the substantive case. The coming weeks are likely to determine whether the party can overcome its internal divisions and move forward as a unified political force.
