By Francis Wilfred
A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has petitioned the United States Embassy in Abuja, alleging attempts to take control of the party’s leadership in violation of its constitution. In the complaint, Nafiu Bala Gombe, who describes himself as the party’s “authentic” national chairman, accused unnamed political actors of undermining internal processes and due procedure. He called on the United States to consider measures, including visa restrictions, against individuals found to be involved in any unconstitutional actions.
Gombe said the dispute followed the resignation of former National Chairman Ralph Okey Nwosu and members of the party’s National Working Committee. He argued that, based on the party’s constitution, the deputy national chairman should assume leadership to ensure continuity. He maintained that, as the only deputy national chairman who did not resign, he is the legitimate leader of the party. However, he alleged that some individuals are seeking to assume leadership outside established procedures.
The faction said it has approached the courts to resolve the dispute. It also denied claims circulating in some quarters linking its position to external political support. The petition urged international attention to what it described as internal governance concerns within the party.
