The internal crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) intensified on Tuesday as rival factions openly clashed over the legitimate leadership of the party, further deepening uncertainty following recent actions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The dispute centers on competing claims of authority, after a rival faction appeared on national television asserting that it had convened a valid National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. The group also expressed support for INEC’s decision to suspend engagement with the party—claims strongly rejected by the opposing camp.
Responding to the development, Queen Okiyi, Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the David Mark-led faction, dismissed the rival group’s actions as illegitimate and accused its members of acting in their own interests rather than that of the party.
“They have been compromised. These are individuals whose conduct has previously been questioned, and who now believe they can manipulate the party for personal gain,” she said.
Okiyi stressed that the ADC remains committed to discipline and adherence to its constitution, warning that acts of defiance would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
“You cannot claim to be a member of a political party and at the same time disregard its rules and structure. Loyalty to the party’s constitution is not optional,” she added.
She further alleged that some members of the rival faction had previously engaged in misconduct, including unauthorized dealings involving party property. According to her, disciplinary actions had been taken against such individuals, which they have continued to resist.
“Some of them refused to accept their suspension and have continued to present themselves as party officials despite clear sanctions,” Okiyi stated.
She also suggested that external influence may be fueling the ongoing crisis, alleging that certain actors linked to the party’s past leadership are backing the rival faction.
Meanwhile, the opposing group maintains that its NEC meeting was valid and insists it has the authority to speak for the party. The conflicting positions have widened divisions within the ADC, leaving its leadership structure increasingly uncertain.
The situation continues to raise concerns about the party’s stability ahead of future political engagements.
