ADC Faction Rejects David Mark’s Claim to Party Leadership

A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), led by former Gombe State governorship candidate Nafiu Bala, has strongly rejected the leadership claims made by former Senate President David Mark, labelling them as baseless and unconstitutional.

In a statement released Thursday and signed by Dr. Aminu Alhassan, Bala’s Special Adviser on Public Affairs, the group asserted that only verified members of the party are eligible to contest for leadership roles.

“It has come to our notice that following the resignation of Chief Ralph Nwosu, certain individuals—particularly David Mark and his allies—are attempting to seize control of the party. These actions are not only unfounded but also directly violate the provisions of the ADC constitution,” the statement read.

The faction clarified that Nwosu’s resignation did not imply a leadership vacuum open to all, but rather initiated a process of internal deliberation in line with constitutional procedures.

“The ADC constitution clearly states that only registered, bona fide members of the party can vie for leadership positions. This condition is non-negotiable,” Alhassan emphasized.

According to the group, the rightful method to fill the leadership void is through a meeting of the party’s National Executive Council (NEC), where decisions will be discussed and later ratified through appropriate party conventions.

The faction reaffirmed Alhaji Nafiu Bala as the legitimate National Chairman of the ADC and urged members to remain united and calm in the face of ongoing tensions.

“The actions of David Mark and his camp are not only a misreading of our governance processes but also an affront to the democratic ethos the ADC upholds,” the statement added.

Alhassan further emphasized that no part of the Nigerian Constitution, INEC regulations, or the ADC’s internal rules allows for the assumption of leadership without due process or confirmed membership.

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He concluded by expressing confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to uphold democratic norms in resolving internal party disputes and called on members to support Nafiu Bala’s leadership during this transitional period.

“The ADC is founded on integrity, accountability, and democracy. We urge our members to rally behind Alhaji Nafiu and continue working for the progress of our party and the communities we serve.”