There are growing indications that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed may abandon their plans to defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), following the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) recent decision to withdraw recognition of the party’s leadership. The development has cast a shadow over the ADC’s stability and raised questions about its viability as a political platform ahead of the 2027 general elections. Sources close to both governors told Sunday Punch that consultations for a potential switch have slowed significantly since INEC’s action, which has created uncertainty among other politicians considering joining the party.
INEC removed the names of the ADC’s National Working Committee, led by former Senate President David Mark, from its official portal on Wednesday. The electoral body stated that the move followed a Court of Appeal ruling on March 12, 2026, directing all parties involved in the leadership dispute to maintain the status quo until the Federal High Court in Abuja delivers a final judgment. The court’s directive aims to prevent actions that could prejudice the outcome of the ongoing legal battle. Despite this, the Mark-led faction rejected INEC’s decision and called for the dissolution of the commission, insisting it would proceed with plans for the party’s national convention scheduled for April 14 in Abuja.
The leadership crisis within the ADC has deepened, with rival factions led by Nafiu Gombe and David Mark each claiming control of the party’s national structure. This internal conflict has weakened the party’s image and deterred potential allies, including high-profile governors like Makinde and Bala. Earlier reports had suggested that both governors were seriously considering a move to the ADC amid growing frustration with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), particularly over internal divisions and leadership challenges.
Bala Mohammed, who also serves as Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, had previously hinted at a possible shift after meeting with ADC delegates, including former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal. He stated that he had exhausted efforts to reconcile differences within the PDP and described the ADC as a “preferred destination.” However, he emphasized that consultations were still ongoing. In response to recent speculation, Makinde’s Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, dismissed claims of a defection as “mere rumours,” adding that the governor had not delayed any decision due to leadership uncertainty.
Similarly, the Bauchi State chapter of the PDP confirmed that Governor Bala Mohammed remains within the party. The party’s Publicity Secretary, Dayyabu Chiroma, stated that while a committee has been set up to assess the party’s political future, no decision has been made to leave the PDP. He reiterated that the party is stronger together and remains committed to its platform. The unfolding developments suggest that the ADC’s leadership turmoil may have inadvertently preserved the PDP’s position, at least for now, as key governors reassess their political options. The coming months will be critical in determining whether the ADC can resolve its internal conflicts or if it will continue to lose ground in Nigeria’s competitive political landscape.
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