ADC Faction Seeks US Intervention in Leadership Dispute, Alleges Hijack Plot
A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has formally petitioned the United States Embassy in Abuja, raising alarm over what it describes as an orchestrated plot to hijack the party's leadership structure and undermine internal democratic processes.
The petition, submitted by the party's National Chairman, Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe, urges the US to consider imposing sanctions, including visa restrictions, against individuals allegedly involved in any unconstitutional takeover of the ADC's leadership.
Constitutional Violations and External Interference
In the detailed complaint addressed to the embassy, Gombe accuses unnamed political actors of violating the ADC's constitution and due process. He asserts that the crisis emerged following the resignation of the party's former National Chairman, Ralph Okey Nwosu, and other members of the National Working Committee (NWC).
According to Gombe, the ADC constitution mandates that when the office of the National Chairman becomes vacant, the Deputy National Chairman should assume leadership to ensure continuity. He claims that as the sole remaining National Deputy Chairman who did not resign, he rightfully inherited the leadership mantle.
"I write to you in my capacity as the Authentic National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress," Gombe stated in the letter. "I wish to bring to your attention a critical situation regarding the internal affairs of our party, which we believe poses a threat to democratic integrity and the rule of law in Nigeria."
Allegations of External Political Manipulation
Gombe alleges that external political actors from various other parties are attempting to hijack the ADC and appoint themselves as leaders without adhering to the party's constitution or established procedures. He describes these individuals as "power mongers" who are obstructing the legitimate path to leadership.
While the faction has sought legal recourse through the courts to affirm its mandate, Gombe claims opponents have resorted to propaganda, falsely alleging that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is sponsoring and using the courts to thwart their ambitions.
"To be clear, and to set the record straight, we state unequivocally that we have no contact, relationship, or affiliation with President Tinubu or his political party, the All Progressives Congress," Gombe emphasized.
Call for International Sanctions and Democratic Safeguards
The petition calls on the United States to take note of what it terms "anti-democratic practices" within the party. Gombe argues that the appeal aims to safeguard internal party democracy and uphold the rule of law in Nigeria.
"We respectfully request that should these undemocratic elements succeed in their hijacking of our party leadership through unconstitutional means, the United States should consider imposing sanctions against them," Gombe wrote.
Specifically, the faction appeals for the revocation or denial of privileges such as visas or diplomatic courtesies typically accorded to genuine democrats. Gombe believes such actions would send a strong signal that the subversion of internal party democracy and constitutional processes will not be tolerated by the international community.
"We thank you for your continued support in encouraging and nurturing younger democracies to establish good governance globally," Gombe concluded. "We trust that you will view our appeal with the urgency and seriousness it deserves, in the interest of justice and democratic survival in Nigeria."
