The leadership crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress, ADC, has intensified as a faction led by Bala Gombe stormed the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, demanding formal recognition.
Gombe, accompanied by a member of the House of Representatives representing Yagba Federal Constituency, Kogi State, Leke Abejide, and hundreds of supporters, accused the David Mark-led leadership of attempting to hijack the party in defiance of its constitution and internal processes.
The faction urged INEC to strictly adhere to due process in resolving the dispute, insisting the commission must remain neutral and uphold the rule of law.
Speaking during the protest, Leke Abejide called on the commission to resist what he described as an attempted takeover, stressing that the ADC constitution clearly outlines eligibility requirements for leadership positions.
Responding on behalf of INEC, National Commissioner Abdullahi Abdu Zuru assured the protesters that their concerns would be reviewed.
The protest comes barely 24 hours after a rival faction led by former Senate President David Mark staged a demonstration in Abuja under the banner of #OccupyINEC, accusing the electoral body of undermining democracy and the party’s internal structure.
The back-to-back protests highlight a deepening rift within the ADC, raising concerns over the party’s stability ahead of future elections.
