A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by former Gombe governorship candidate, Alhaji Nafiu Bala, has rejected the leadership claim made by former Senate President, David Mark.
In a statement issued on Thursday, by Bala’s Special Adviser on Public Affairs, Dr. Aminu Alhassan, but seen by First News correspondent on Friday, August 8, the group described Mark’s claim as “unfounded” and “a clear violation of the party’s constitution.”
“In light of the resignation of Chief Ralph Nwosu, it has come to our attention that certain individuals, notably David Mark and his associates, have attempted to assert claims of leadership that are not only unfounded but also contrary to the principles and constitution of our party,” the statement read.
Alhassan clarified that Nwosu’s resignation did not create a leadership vacuum but opened the door for a structured transition in line with the ADC constitution.
He stressed that leadership must be determined through a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting and subsequent ratification by the party’s convention.
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Furthermore, he emphasised that “there is no provision in the Independent National Electoral Commission regulations, the Federal Constitution, or the ADC’s constitution that permits an individual to assume leadership without fulfilling the requisite criteria of membership and democratic process.”
Calling on party members to remain calm and united, the statement reaffirmed Nafiu Bala as the rightful national chairman.
The faction urged members to disregard what it called “the antics of those who seek to disrupt our unity.”
The group also expressed faith in INEC’s ability to uphold internal democracy and work with the party to ensure fair processes.
“In conclusion, we stand firmly behind Alhaji Nafiu as the legitimate National Chairman,” the statement added, calling for collective support to strengthen the party.