INEC Listing Strengthens Bala’s Claim To ADC Leadership

African Democratic Congress (ADC) faction loyal to Hon. Nafiu Bala has reaffirmed his position as acting national chairman, citing the party’s constitution and the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) updated records.

Addressing journalists in Abuja yesterday, members of the ADC Board of Trustees, non-resigned National Executive Committee (NEC) members, and state chairmen led by Bar Ado Dauda expressed gratitude to outgoing national chairman, Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu, for what they described as “visionAry leadership” and urged the members to maintain unity amid succession disputes.

Quoting Article 14.3 of the party’s constitution, they noted that the deputy national chairman automatically assumes the role of acting national chairman in the event of the chairman’s resignation, pending the next national convention.

They maintained that Bala’s leadership is in line with Nwosu’s July 2, 2025 public declaration and INEC’s continued recognition of the pre-July NEC structure, as reflected on its portal as of August 11.

The group rejected what it called “unconstitutional takeover attempts,” describing as “fraudulent” a purported resignation letter attributed to Bala dated May 18, 2025, which they said lacked the party’s letterhead and contradicted Nwosu’s statement.

Welcoming new coalition partners, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra governor Peter Obi, and former Interior Minister Rauf Aregbesola, the leaders stressed that compliance with the Electoral Act—through formal resignation from previous parties and registration at ward level—was mandatory to avoid legal pitfalls.

Outlining the pathway forward, they announced that Bala will manage daily operations and organise a national convention within 90 days. They also vowed to seek INEC’s formal endorsement of his acting chairmanship and pursue legal action against counterfeit documents.

“Members must remain vigilant. Report irregularities to the NWC Secretariat and remember: no non-member shall hold office,” they said.

It was signed by ADC Board of Trustees representatives, State Chairmen Forum, and NEC members, including Barr. Ado Dauda.