ADC Crisis: Party Disowns ‘Irregular’ Leadership Appointments Amid Viral Video Controversy

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a formal clarification addressing widespread reactions to circulating videos from its July 2, 2025, stakeholders’ meeting, describing recent leadership developments as unconstitutional and unexpected.

According to Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe, who now serves as the party’s National Chairman, the meeting was originally convened to finalize the adoption of the ADC as a unified platform for coalition partners. However, proceedings took a dramatic turn when the then National Chairman, Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu, made a series of unanticipated announcements.

In his welcome address, Nwosu reportedly declared his resignation and proceeded to issue membership cards to former Senate President David Mark and ex-Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola. He also announced their appointments as Acting National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively.

Gombe described these actions as a clear violation of the ADC Constitution (2022, as amended), specifically citing provisions that outline the proper procedure for leadership succession. He emphasized that the constitution does not grant an outgoing chairman the authority to appoint successors.

“There was no formal vote, no consensus, and no prior consultation with members of the National Working Committee (NWC),” Gombe stated, noting that many party leaders present at the meeting were taken by surprise.

He further clarified that his presence at the meeting, as well as his involvement in prior coalition discussions between April 2024 and July 2025, should not be interpreted as endorsement of the appointments.

Adding to the confusion, the party’s then National Secretary, Alhaji Sa’id Baba Abdullahi, also resigned shortly after Nwosu’s announcement under circumstances described as unclear. Gombe noted that neither resignation had been discussed with NWC members beforehand.

The statement aims to address public concerns fueled by viral social media clips and to reaffirm the party’s commitment to due process and constitutional order.

Gombe concluded by assuring party members and the public that steps are being taken to clarify the situation and uphold the integrity of the ADC’s leadership structure.