The Acting National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Hon. Nafiu Bala, has pledged to fortify the party’s structures and deepen internal democracy in preparation for the 2027 general elections.

The party stressed that all new coalition members must formally resign from their previous parties and register with ADC at the ward level in compliance with the Electoral Act and the party’s constitution.

Bala, who disclosed this in Abuja during a press briefing, vowed to lead the party with integrity and inclusivity, calling on members to unite behind ADC’s vision for good governance and national transformation.

Bala said: “As your Acting National Chairman, I pledge to lead with integrity, wisdom, and dedication. I will work tirelessly to strengthen our party, promote unity, and advance our collective vision for a better Nigeria.

“My leadership focus will be to build strong institutional structures, enhance inclusivity, promote policy development, foster strategic alliances, and assemble a vibrant leadership team. Together, we will build a stronger, more united, and more effective political party.”

In a separate press conference, ADC Board of Trustees (BOT) Chairman, Hon. Ado Dauda, warned that failure to register with the party officially could lead to legal challenges and undermine the coalition’s credibility.

He said: “We welcome leaders like Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rauf Aregbesola and others, but formal resignation from previous parties must be documented and ward-level registration completed in their home states.

“Failure to comply risks legal disputes and could weaken the coalition. Hon. Nafiu Bala will oversee daily operations and prepare for a National Convention within 90 days.”

Dauda also dismissed as fraudulent a purported resignation letter attributed to Bala, reaffirming his position under Article 14.3 of the ADC Constitution, and vowing to resist any unconstitutional attempt to impose parallel leadership.

ADC’s 2023 Benue State governorship candidate, Engr. Terhemen Tilley-Gyado, also endorsed Bala’s leadership following the voluntary resignation of former Chairman, Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu.

He urged top coalition figures, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, David Mark, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rauf Aregbesola, to finalise their ADC membership to protect the coalition’s integrity.

Tilley-Gyado reaffirmed the ADC’s commitment to credible opposition, transparency, and progressive governance, calling on members and allies to rally behind the party’s vision for a “new Nigeria.”