Nafiu Bala, a factional national chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has explained his presence at the party’s July 2025 unveiling of an interim leadership, alleging that former Senate President David Mark was imposed during the event.
Bala confirmed that he attended the unveiling but said there was no prior agreement among party stakeholders to install the leadership that eventually emerged.
The ADC has since been embroiled in a deep internal crisis, with rival factions led by Bala and Mark laying claim to the party’s leadership.
Amid the dispute, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced the de-recognition of both factions following a court of appeal ruling delivered on March 12.
Controversy over Bala’s role resurfaced on Monday after videos showing his presence at the unveiling circulated widely on social media.
However, in a statement issued on Tuesday, Bala maintained that the outcome of the meeting was unexpected and contrary to agreed procedures.
“Contrary to expectations, the event took an unexpected turn when Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu, the then National Chairman, was given the floor to deliver his welcoming address,” he said.
“In a shocking move, he announced his resignation as national chairman, proceeded to issue a membership card to Sen. David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola, and declared them acting national chairman and national secretary, respectively.”
Bala argued that the action violated the party’s constitution, stressing that the ADC’s rules do not empower an outgoing chairman to unilaterally appoint successors.
He cited provisions of the ADC Constitution (2022, as amended), describing Nwosu’s decision as a clear breach of due process and a major trigger of the ongoing leadership crisis within the party.
