Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has said that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should have recognised Nafiu Bala Gombe as the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Wike made the remarks during a media briefing in Abuja on Friday while commenting on the ongoing leadership crisis within the party. The minister, however, added that the ADC should be satisfied with INEC’s decision not to recognise any faction until the matter is resolved in court.
According to Wike, INEC’s position followed a court judgment which, in his view, should have led to the recognition of Bala Gombe as the party’s National Chairman.
“In my own opinion, INEC, by that judgment, ought to have recognized Bala Gombe as the ADC national chairman,” Wike said.
He further noted that the electoral commission’s decision to suspend recognition of all factions within the party was still beneficial, as it allows the legal process to determine the rightful leadership.
“ADC should be happy that INEC said, ‘Look, we are not going to recognize any of you until you sort your matter in court,’” he added.
The development follows INEC’s recent decision to remove the names of former Senate President, David Mark, and former Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola, from its official portal as National Chairman and National Secretary of the ADC, respectively.
INEC also stated that it would not recognise Bala Gombe, who is seeking to be declared National Chairman through legal proceedings currently before the Federal High Court.
The electoral commission subsequently announced the suspension of recognition for all factions within the party. It further clarified that it would not monitor any conventions, congresses, or meetings organised by rival groups within the ADC pending the final determination of the substantive suit before the court.
The leadership crisis within the ADC has intensified in recent weeks, with multiple factions laying claim to the party’s national leadership and seeking recognition from INEC.
Reacting to the development, the ADC accused INEC of violating the law and allegedly taking sides in the internal dispute. Party stakeholders argued that the commission’s actions have further complicated the leadership crisis rather than resolving it.
Political observers note that the dispute reflects ongoing internal challenges within political parties as they reposition ahead of future electoral contests. The refusal by INEC to recognise any faction is seen as an attempt to avoid legal complications while awaiting judicial clarification.
Wike’s intervention in the matter highlights the growing national attention surrounding the ADC leadership tussle, particularly given the involvement of prominent political figures and the potential implications for party activities.
The FCT minister, known for his outspoken political views, maintained that adherence to court processes remains the best way to resolve the dispute. He stressed that parties involved should focus on legal resolution rather than public confrontation.
The ongoing case before the Federal High Court is expected to determine the rightful leadership of the African Democratic Congress and provide clarity on who INEC should officially recognise.
Until then, INEC’s decision means that no faction within the party will be allowed to conduct official party conventions or congresses under the commission’s supervision.
The development has created uncertainty within the ADC as stakeholders await the court’s final ruling, which is expected to shape the party’s leadership structure moving forward.
As the dispute continues, political analysts suggest that early resolution will be critical to stabilising the party and enabling it to effectively prepare for future political activities and elections.
