The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has firmly denied reports that former Senate President David Mark has stepped down as the party’s national chairman to make way for Ralph Nwosu ahead of its national convention. The party dismissed the claims as false, stating there has been no change in its leadership structure. This clarification came after an online publication alleged that Mark had relinquished his position due to internal disagreements and pressure over the party’s leadership. The report also claimed Nwosu was being positioned to lead the party toward its national convention and stabilize its affairs ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, took to 𝕏 on Sunday to urge the public to disregard the claims, labeling them as “#FakeNews.” He urged users to flag and report such content on social media platforms. The party’s statement comes amid ongoing leadership tensions within the ADC, which have drawn attention from both political observers and electoral authorities.
The controversy intensified after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) removed the names of the ADC’s National Working Committee, led by David Mark, from its official portal. INEC cited a Court of Appeal judgment delivered on March 12, 2026, which ordered all parties involved in the leadership dispute to maintain the status quo ante bellum. The court directed that no actions be taken that could affect the outcome of a pending substantive suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
INEC emphasized that the appellate court’s ruling required all parties to preserve the party’s leadership structure as it existed before the dispute began. Despite this, the Mark-led faction has rejected INEC’s interpretation of the court’s decision. They have called for the dissolution of the electoral body and insisted that preparations for the party’s national convention will continue as planned.
The ADC has scheduled its national convention for April 14 in Abuja, even as the leadership crisis remains unresolved. The party is currently divided between two factions: one led by David Mark and the other by Nafiu Gombe. Both claim legitimacy, and the legal battle over control continues to unfold in the courts.
The situation highlights the fragility of party structures in Nigeria’s political landscape, especially as the 2027 general elections approach. With leadership disputes threatening party unity, the ADC’s ability to present a cohesive front remains uncertain. The outcome of the legal proceedings will likely determine the party’s direction in the coming months.
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