A third faction within the African Democratic Congress has made a dramatic move. Led by Dumebi Kachikwu, the group declared the David Mark-led National Working Committee dissolved during its Abuja convention.
Kachikwu's faction dismissed Mark's committee as merely a caretaker body. The convention deepened an already bitter leadership struggle ahead of 2027 elections.
This action defied a recent Supreme Court ruling backing Mark's leadership. A separate Federal High Court case still pits Mark's camp against a Nafiu Bala Gombe faction.
At the convention, Kachikwu's group installed fresh party officials. Abdulkadir Mohammed Bashir took the national chairman position.
Kennedy Odiom became national secretary under the new arrangement. Chris Ugwu claimed the national publicity secretary role.
Kingsley Ogah secured the Board of Trustees chairmanship as well. Party members also ratified the 2018 constitution with amendments.
According to Bashir during his acceptance remarks, the ADC is Nigeria's best hope against the ruling APC. He blamed the party's turmoil on selfish political interests.
Bashir promised not to fail in his duties. In his words, fresh leadership would unite the divided party.
He called on members to pray and support the new administration. Party doors remain open to all interested Nigerians, he stressed.
Observers see the move as escalating internal tension significantly. The ADC now operates as three competing power centers simultaneously.
