Crisis brews in ADC as faction petitions US over alleged party hijack

9A leadership crisis is emerging in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a faction led by Nafiu Bala Gombe has petitioned the United States embassy in Abuja, alleging that some party members are attempting to take control of the party unlawfully.

In the petition, Gombe claims that following the resignation of former National Chairman Ralph Okey Nwosu and other members of the National Working Committee, he, as the sole remaining Deputy National Chairman, should constitutionally assume leadership. He accused unnamed politicians of bypassing the party’s rules and undermining internal democracy.

Gombe asked the US to consider sanctions, including visa restrictions, against individuals allegedly involved in the “unconstitutional takeover” to protect democratic practices within the party. He emphasized that the faction has no links with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu or the All-Progressives Congress, rejecting claims to the contrary.

The petition underscores the faction’s call for adherence to the ADC Constitution, protection of internal democracy, and support from the international community to ensure that lawful procedures are respected in Nigeria’s political parties.