The African Democratic Congress (ADC) concluded its 8th national convention on Tuesday in Abuja, ratifying the David Mark-led National Working Committee and expelling several members currently challenging the party’s leadership in court.
Delegates from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory overwhelmingly endorsed David Mark’s leadership to guide the ADC for the next four years. The convention also approved key constitutional amendments.
During the proceedings, the expulsion of Nafiu Bala and others accused of anti-party activities was formally announced. A motion for their removal was moved and seconded, following the disciplinary committee’s report, which noted that those affected—including Nafiu Bala, Odion Kennedy, Mrs. Stella Chukwuma, Johnny, Derek, and Elias—had failed to reconsider their actions despite repeated opportunities.
The committee’s recommendation invoked Article 92 of the party’s constitution, empowering the National Convention to suspend or expel members for disciplinary reasons.
The ADC has recently faced a leadership crisis, with rival factions contesting the party’s direction. Nafiu Bala had filed a legal suit seeking to prevent the Mark-led committee from representing the ADC.
Addressing delegates, party leaders underscored the importance of unity and selecting a credible candidate for the 2027 presidential election. Among those present were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former governors Rotimi Amaechi and Peter Obi.
Amaechi stressed that electoral success depends on presenting a widely acceptable candidate, recalling how the formation of the APC prioritized competence over ethnic and religious differences. He lamented Nigeria’s current drift toward divisive politics, emphasizing that economic realities—not identity—should drive national priorities.
There is no Muslim market, no Christian market; the market is Naira, Amaechi said, urging Nigerians to prioritize unity and shared prosperity.
Obi highlighted Nigeria’s worsening security and economic situation, noting the country’s drop from fourth to eighth in the global terrorism ranking and the rise in national debt from N87 trillion to about N200 trillion. He warned that insufficient funding for the 2025 budget could further destabilize the economy and endanger future generations.
Atiku Abubakar called on ADC members and all Nigerians to work towards meaningful political change, emphasizing his generation’s commitment to securing a better future for the youth. He pledged zero tolerance for corruption and promised that the ADC would uphold strict governance standards.
David Mark, in his closing remarks, praised the planning committee for organizing a superior convention and described the event as a turning point for the ADC’s quest for national leadership. He urged members to remain dedicated to the party’s growth and development.
(NAN)
