ADC Leadership Crisis Intensifies Amid Legal Debate
The leadership turmoil within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) reached a new peak yesterday as former presidential candidate Dumebi Kachikwu launched a scathing critique against the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). This development follows the party's recent expulsion of several members, citing disciplinary issues and reaffirming its dedication to accountability and legal principles.
Kachikwu's Fiery Rebuttal to NBA Position
During a press conference held in Abuja, Kachikwu vehemently opposed the NBA's interpretation of Section 83 of the Electoral Act 2026. The association had cautioned against the increasing reliance on courts for political maneuvering, emphasizing that the law explicitly prohibits judicial intervention in intra-party conflicts and bars the issuance of interim orders in such cases.
Kachikwu labeled the NBA's stance as "misguided, legally flawed, and perilous to democratic integrity." He argued that completely excluding judicial oversight could enable unlawful takeovers of political organizations. "If external actors can illegally seize party structures while courts are instructed to remain passive, we are essentially inviting democratic chaos," he asserted.
The ADC leader maintained that although political parties possess internal resolution mechanisms, courts have a constitutional obligation to intervene when allegations of fraud, illegality, or constitutional breaches arise. He clarified that the current ADC dispute is not merely an internal disagreement but an attempted hijacking by "outsiders" seeking to commandeer the party's framework.
ADC's Expulsion of Errant Members
Amid the escalating controversy, the ADC officially announced the expulsion of numerous members following resolutions adopted at its National Convention on April 14, 2026, in Abuja. National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi stated that the decision resulted from a disciplinary motion against individuals who violated the party's constitution and core values.
The expelled members include Leke Abejide, Nafiu Bala Gombe, Kingsley Ogga, Don Obinna, Kennedy Odion, Clement Ehigiator, Mrs. Stella Chukwuma, Patrick Ambut, Johny Derek, Duke Dick, and Elias Adikwu. The motion was presented and ratified by delegates under the leadership of National Chairman Senator David Mark.
"With immediate effect, these individuals are no longer ADC members. They are free to pursue other political avenues, and any party willing to accept them may do so," the statement declared.
Additional Expulsion of House Representative
In a separate action, the ADC expelled House of Representatives member George Adegeye, who represents Amuwo-Odofin Federal Constituency. The expulsion, based on accusations of anti-party activities, insubordination, and usurpation of party structures, was formalized through a letter signed by local chapter officials including Ward Chairman Ola Olajide, Secretary Faith Kelechi, and Women Leader Wisdom Ajogu.
The letter, issued after an Emergency General Meeting in Ward B, Festac Town, Lagos, condemned Adegeye's actions as a direct challenge to the party's constitutional provisions.
This unfolding situation highlights the deepening rift within the ADC and the broader legal debate over the balance between party autonomy and judicial oversight in Nigeria's political landscape.
