A fresh leadership crisis is brewing within the African Democratic Congress as a faction of the party has petitioned the United States Embassy in Abuja, alleging attempts to hijack the party’s leadership and undermine internal democratic processes.
The faction, led by Nafiu Bala Gombe, is urging the United States to consider sanctions, including visa restrictions, against individuals they accuse of attempting an unconstitutional takeover of the party.
In the petition submitted to the embassy, Gombe described himself as the “authentic” National Chairman of the ADC, insisting that the leadership vacuum created by the resignation of former National Chairman Ralph Okey Nwosu and members of the National Working Committee (NWC) should have automatically placed him in charge as the Deputy National Chairman.
According to Gombe, internal party rules were not followed, as he claimed that some unnamed politicians bypassed due process in their attempt to take control of the party.
He argued that his faction is upholding constitutional provisions, stating that his position as the only remaining Deputy National Chairman entitled him to assume leadership responsibilities.
Gombe further alleged that “external political forces” are interfering in the party’s affairs, accusing rival actors of attempting to seize control without adhering to established party procedures.
He also noted that the matter is already before the courts, emphasizing that his group is seeking legal redress to defend what they described as adherence to party rules.
In the petition, Gombe strongly dismissed claims linking the faction to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu or the All Progressives Congress, stating that they have no affiliation with the ruling party.
He appealed to the United States to take note of what he termed anti-democratic practices within the ADC and to support efforts to uphold democratic norms in Nigeria.
Gombe also urged the U.S. to consider punitive measures, including denying visas or privileges, to individuals found guilty of undermining internal democracy in the party.
The petition highlights deepening divisions within the ADC, raising concerns about the party’s internal stability as political tensions continue to escalate.
Observers say the development could further complicate the party’s leadership structure as legal and political battles unfold in the coming weeks.
