The leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has intensified, as the faction led by former Senate President David Mark announced the expulsion of several high-profile members over alleged anti-party activities.
Among those expelled are factional national chairman Nafiu Bala and House of Representatives member Leke Abejide, alongside other party figures including Kenneth Ehiator, Stella Chukwu, and Elias Adiukwu.
The decision was reached during the party’s national convention held in Abuja, where delegates overwhelmingly adopted a motion moved by Senator Binos Yaroe. Party officials stated that the affected individuals were found to have engaged in actions deemed harmful to the unity and progress of the party.
This latest development comes amid a prolonged internal struggle over control of the party’s leadership structure, with rival factions laying claim to legitimacy. The crisis has not only split the party but also triggered legal battles currently before the Supreme Court.
Legal counsel to the party, Jibrin Okutepa, confirmed that the apex court has granted accelerated hearing of appeals related to the dispute. The court is expected to first determine whether the leadership tussle is justiciable before proceeding further.
The controversy was further complicated by a prior Court of Appeal ruling, which led to the removal of certain party officials, including David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola, from the electoral body’s records.
As tensions continue to rise, the ADC faces mounting uncertainty over its internal cohesion and future political direction, especially with ongoing court proceedings expected to shape the outcome of the leadership dispute.