A factional leader of the African Democratic Congress, Nafiu Gombe, has appealed for reconciliation with former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President David Mark, and other party chieftains. This call for unity comes ahead of the 2027 general elections. Gombe's appeal follows a Federal High Court judgment that nullified the leadership structure of the David Mark-led caretaker committee.
The Federal High Court judgment, delivered on November 5, 2026, by Justice Peter Lifu in Abuja, invalidated the processes that led to Atiku emerging as the party's presidential candidate. Gombe had filed the suit challenging the committee's formation. He described the outcome as a vindication of his faction's position, stating that the court has seen the merit of his case and decided to return the party leadership to his faction.
Despite the legal victory, Gombe urged members of the opposing faction to engage in dialogue rather than deepen divisions. He emphasized that reconciliation must be grounded in strict adherence to the party's constitution, particularly regarding proper ward-level registration and membership requirements for leadership positions. Gombe accused the opposing camp of bypassing constitutional procedures.
Gombe alleged that Mark obtained his membership card in Abuja rather than through his local ward. He dismissed claims that his legal challenge was sponsored by the ruling All Progressives Congress, maintaining that his actions were intended solely to defend the party constitution. The leadership dispute has created uncertainty over the ADC's preparations for the 2027 polls.
The dispute has placed the Independent National Electoral Commission in a difficult position. Mohammed Haruna, INEC national commissioner and chairman of the information and voter education committee, stated that the electoral body would study the certified true copy of the judgment before determining its next steps. The commission's actions will be crucial in resolving the party's leadership crisis.
The David Mark-led National Working Committee has appealed against the judgment, setting the stage for further legal battles over the party's control as the general elections approach. The ongoing leadership dispute within the African Democratic Congress has significant implications for the party's future and its ability to present a united front in the 2027 elections.
The African Democratic Congress's internal conflict may affect its performance in the 2027 general elections. The party's ability to reconcile its differences and present a united front will be crucial in its bid to make a significant impact in the polls. The coming weeks will be critical in determining the party's leadership and direction.
Key points
- The African Democratic Congress's leadership dispute has created uncertainty over the party's preparations for the 2027 general elections.
- Nafiu Gombe has called for reconciliation with party chieftains ahead of the 2027 elections.
- The Independent National Electoral Commission will study the court judgment before determining its next steps.
