The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has once again found itself in a leadership storm as former Deputy National Chairman, Nafiu Bala, has dismissed the appointment of Senator David Mark and former governor Rauf Aregbesola as party leaders.
Nwosu’s Exit and Controversial Transition
The crisis stems from the resignation of Ralph Nwosu, the long-serving National Chairman of the party, who relinquished his position in July. His National Working Committee subsequently handed over the party’s national secretariat to Mark and Aregbesola.
But Bala has now come forward to dispute the arrangement, insisting that the ADC constitution empowers him to take over in the event of a vacancy at the top.
Bala’s Position
In Abuja, he told journalists:
“We aren’t aware of change in leadership. Our former national chairman voluntarily resigns his leadership. Our party constitution is very clear on the transfer of power.
When our national chairman resigns, automatically our Constitution says the deputy national chairman can take over the leadership of the party. I have now resumed office as the authentic national chairman of our great party, the ADC.”
Ripple Effect in Political Landscape
This ongoing battle raises uncertainty for the African Democratic Congress as it prepares for the 2026 Osun governorship elections and other political contests nationwide. Analysts fear that if not quickly resolved, the crisis could split the party’s support base.