Nafiu Bala Declares Himself ADC National Chairman Amid Leadership Crisis

The leadership tussle within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) intensified on Wednesday as Nafiu Bala declared himself the party’s National Chairman and officially assumed office.

Speaking at a press briefing, Bala insisted he is the legitimate leader of the ADC, citing both the Electoral Act and the party’s constitution as giving him automatic succession rights following the resignation of former National Chairman Ralph Nwosu.

Nwosu stepped down months ago after the ADC was adopted by an opposition coalition. In his absence, David Mark was named Interim National Chairman—a move Bala has openly rejected, accusing coalition leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, of attempting to hijack the party.

“As far as our party is concerned, there has been no legitimate change of leadership,” Bala said. “Our former National Chairman voluntarily resigned, and our constitution clearly states that when this happens, the Deputy National Chairman takes over. By law and by our constitution, I now resume office as the authentic National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress.”