The African Democratic Congress (ADC), on Friday, dismissed recent claims to its leadership by former Senate President David Mark and his associates, describing them as “unfounded” and in clear violation of the party’s constitution.
The clarification follows the resignation of Chief Ralph Nwosu as National Chairman, a move which the party says has triggered a constitutional process for appointing his successor, not a “free-for-all” scramble for control.
In a statement by the Special Assistant (Public Affairs) to the Interim National Chairman, Dr. Aminu Sani Alhassan, the ADC stressed that only bona fide members of the party can aspire to leadership positions.
The party reaffirmed Alhaji Nafiu as its legitimate National Chairman and urged members to remain calm and united.
He said: “In light of the resignation of Chief Ralph Nwosu, it has come to our attention that certain individuals, notably David Mark and his associates, have attempted to assert claims of leadership that are not only unfounded but also contrary to the principles and constitution of our party.
“First and foremost, it is essential to clarify that the resignation of Chief Ralph Nwosu did not create a free-for-all scenario within the ADC. Instead, it has opened a necessary dialogue regarding the future of our leadership, a dialogue that must be conducted within the framework established by our party’s constitution.
“The ADC’s constitution is unequivocal in stipulating that any individual seeking to assume a leadership role must first be a bona fide member of the party. This fundamental requirement cannot be overlooked or circumvented by any means.”
Alhassan emphasised that the ADC’s constitution is clear: the leadership vacuum can only be filled through a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, followed by ratification at subsequent party conventions.
He warned that there is no provision in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regulations, the Nigerian Constitution, or the ADC’s constitution that allows anyone to assume leadership without meeting the criteria of membership and following due democratic process.
He also expressed confidence in INEC’s ability to uphold constitutional and democratic norms in political party affairs.
He also called on genuine members of the party to rally behind Alhaji Nafiu and to work collectively towards the betterment of the party and communities.
He added, “The actions being taken by David Mark and his cohort are not only a misinterpretation of our party’s governance structure but also a blatant disregard for the democratic principles that the ADC stands for.
“To our loyal and dedicated members, we urge you to remain calm and focused during this time of transition. The progress we have made as a party is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our genuine members.
“We must not allow ourselves to be distracted or disheartened by the antics of those who seek to disrupt our unity and progress. The ADC is a party built on the foundations of integrity, accountability, and democratic values, and we must collectively uphold these principles.
“As we navigate this period, we also wish to reaffirm our confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). We trust in its commitment to upholding constitutionalism and ensuring that the democratic processes within political parties are respected and adhered to.
“The ADC remains dedicated to collaborating with INEC to foster a political environment that is conducive to fair play and democratic engagement.
“We stand firmly behind Alhaji Nafiu as the legitimate National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress. His leadership will be instrumental in guiding our party through this transitional phase, and we are confident that he will uphold the values that our members hold dear.”
