ADC leadership crisis: INEC suspends recognition of all factions, removes David Mark-led NWC from portal

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has suspended recognition of all factions within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following the ruling of the Court of Appeal in the leadership dispute between former Senate President David Mark and Nafiu Gombe.

INEC disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, saying the decision was reached after reviewing the appellate court’s judgement and multiple legal correspondences from both parties laying claim to the party’s leadership.

According to the commission, the Court of Appeal had ordered all parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum pending the determination of the substantive suit currently before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

INEC said it subsequently resolved not to recognise any faction within the party or entertain communications regarding party affairs until the court delivers its final judgment.

The commission also announced that it would not monitor any meetings, congresses, or conventions organised by any group within the party during the period.

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The electoral umpire further disclosed that the names of the National Working Committee (NWC) led by Mark, which were uploaded to its portal in September 2025, would be removed in compliance with the court’s directive to maintain the status quo.

INEC also rejected requests to allow Gombe to assume control of the party pending the resolution of the dispute, stressing that doing so could prejudice the ongoing court proceedings.

The commission explained that the leadership crisis followed the resignation of former national chairman, Ralph Nwosu, and the emergence of a new leadership structure, which was later challenged in court by Gombe.

Reaffirming its neutrality, INEC urged political parties and stakeholders to respect judicial processes and avoid actions capable of undermining preparations for the 2027 general election.

The Star