The African Democratic Congress (ADC) went ahead with its 2027 National Convention in Abuja despite a court order restraining it and reported efforts to deny access to its venue. The convention, led by former Senate President David Mark, drew over 1,500 delegates and ratified key party decisions, including reforms that validated his leadership emergence.
Earlier, a Federal High Court presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ordered the party to maintain the status quo pending the hearing of a suit filed by aggrieved members. The court adjourned proceedings to April 23, while the Supreme Court of Nigeria fixed April 22 to hear an appeal on the ADC’s leadership crisis. Despite these legal hurdles, the party insisted on proceeding, describing the convention as lawful and necessary.
High-profile political figures attended the event, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and ex-governors such as Aminu Tambuwal, Rotimi Amaechi and Rabiu Kwankwaso. The presence of foreign envoys also underscored the convention’s significance.
Tensions rose ahead of the event as the party alleged that authorities under the Nyesom Wike-led Federal Capital Territory administration pressured the venue owner to withdraw, threatening licence revocation. However, ADC officials maintained they had fulfilled contractual obligations and would not be intimidated.
In his address, Mark said the party would resist political pressure, warning that Nigeria’s democracy was under threat. He stressed that the ADC’s mission goes beyond winning power, aiming instead to promote accountable governance and national development. He also called for unity among opposition leaders.
The convention ratified decisions from recent National Executive Committee meetings, dissolved the National Working Committee, and installed a caretaker leadership. It also approved constitutional amendments, relaxed membership rules, and endorsed the expulsion of some members, including Nafiu Bala Gombe, over alleged anti-party activities.
Overall, the convention highlighted deepening internal disputes within the party while signaling its determination to reposition itself as a credible opposition force.
