A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), reportedly led by former Senate President David Mark, has declared its intention to escalate its internal party dispute to foreign governments and international organisations. The group aims to safeguard Nigeria's democratic principles from what it perceives as a slide towards a one-party system.
Bolaji Abdullahi, the National Publicity Secretary for this faction, stated on Saturday that this proactive step is necessary due to perceived escalating attacks on their members, deliberate efforts to destabilize their leadership, and hindrances to political involvement as the 2027 general elections approach.
The ADC, which has ambitions to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 polls, is currently experiencing a significant leadership schism. The party is effectively split into two primary factions, one under the leadership of Mr. Mark, and the other headed by Nafiu Bala, a former vice chairman.
Prominent political figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and ex-Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi are associated with the faction led by Mr. Mark. Rauf Aregbesola, the former Osun State Governor, serves as the national secretary for this group.
Earlier this week, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced a halt to the recognition of leadership from both ADC factions. This decision was based on a directive from the Court of Appeal, which mandated that the status quo be maintained while a substantive case is heard at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
In reaction to INEC's action, Mr. Mark's faction called for the immediate resignation of the INEC Chairperson, Joash Amupitan. They accused the electoral body of undermining democracy and meddling in the internal affairs of political parties.
However, Mr. Amupitan defended the commission's stance, asserting that its actions were strictly guided by court orders and would remain in effect until a judicial determination.
This unfolding situation has sparked considerable debate, with many opposition figures accusing President Tinubu's administration of orchestrating a move towards a one-party state, a development they contend could imperil Nigeria's democratic future ahead of 2027.
Mr. Abdullahi further elaborated on the faction's international strategy, revealing plans to establish a Special Representatives Network in key global capitals. He reiterated that this initiative is a direct response to the increasing harassment of their members, attempts to discredit their leadership, and measures aimed at restricting political participation ahead of the 2027 elections.
"As part of our efforts to strengthen international engagement, we are establishing a Special Representatives Network across key global capitals to engage foreign governments, amplify credible information about Nigeria’s political environment, and counter one-sided government narratives," he stated.
He added that this network will serve as a liaison with foreign governments, international media outlets, democracy advocacy groups, and the Nigerian diaspora. Its role will involve providing regular updates on the political landscape, human rights issues, and the integrity of electoral processes.
"Our representatives will engage foreign governments, international media, democracy institutions, and the Nigerian diaspora, providing regular briefings on political developments, human rights concerns, and electoral integrity," Mr. Abdullahi remarked.
In addition to international outreach, the faction plans to launch a National Documentation Initiative. This program will focus on systematically recording and reporting incidents that impact political participation across the nation.
"We are also launching a National Documentation Initiative to systematically track and report incidents affecting political participation across Nigeria. From Washington DC to London, Brussels to Addis Ababa, ADC is building a global platform for accountability. Nigeria’s democracy must be seen, heard, and defended everywhere," the spokesperson concluded.
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