The leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress deepened on Thursday as a faction led by Nafiu Bala staged a protest at the headquarters of Independent National Electoral Commission in Abuja, demanding formal recognition of its leadership.

The protesters, led by Bala and accompanied by Leke Abejide, who represents Yagba Federal Constituency in Kogi State, arrived at the commission’s headquarters with supporters, accusing the faction aligned with David Mark of attempting to take control of the party’s structure in violation of its constitution and established procedures.

Addressing officials of the electoral commission, Bala urged INEC to uphold due process in handling the dispute, insisting that the party should not be taken over through what he described as unconstitutional means.

According to him, the ADC belongs to its members across ward, state and national levels, warning against interference by individuals seeking to undermine internal democracy.

Speaking during the protest, Abejide called on INEC to protect the party from what he described as an attempted takeover, stressing that the party’s constitution clearly stipulates that anyone aspiring to a leadership position must have spent at least two years as an active member of the party.

He further urged the commission to maintain the status quo by recognising Bala as national chairman of the party.

Responding on behalf of the commission, Abdullahi Abdu Zuru assured the protesters that their petition would be examined and that the commission would act in line with its mandate.

The protest came barely 24 hours after another faction of the party, backed by Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, also marched to INEC headquarters in support of the David Mark-led leadership.

The earlier protest, tagged #OccupyINEC, attracted several opposition figures, including Rotimi Amaechi, Rauf Aregbesola, Aminu Tambuwal and Dino Melaye.

The demonstration began at Maitama Roundabout in Abuja, with supporters calling on INEC to clarify the party’s authentic leadership amid the growing internal crisis.