At least six state chapters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have suspended their congresses and other programmes following the derecognition of the party’s factional leaderships by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Since the opposition coalition assumed leadership of the ADC in July 2025, the party has been grappling with internal disputes, with three factions, including Nafiu Bala’s and the David Mark-led group laying claim to leadership of the platform.
The crisis culminated in protracted litigation, which prompted INEC to derecognise the Bala and Mark’s faction on April 1, citing the March 12 judgment of the court of appeal.
The commission said it would not attend meetings, congresses, or conventions of the groups pending the determination of a case before the federal high court.
Prior to INEC’s decision, the party had said its polling unit and ward congresses will hold on April 7, while LGA congresses were slated for April 9.
It added that state congresses will take place on April 11, while a convention, where national officers are expected to be unveiled, will hold on April 14.
Five state chapters of the party have so far suspended their congresses and all party activities, citing the need to comply with INEC directives, with a court order halting the process in Katsina state.
On Monday, Anambra ADC announced an immediate suspension of all planned congresses over the lingering internal crisis.
In a statement issued in Awka by Patrick Obianyo, chairman; and Lawrence Okeke, secretary; the Anambra ADC emphasised the need for due process and respect for judicial authority, urging members to remain calm.
The Sokoto state chapter of the party also suspended its state-wide congresses on Wednesday in compliance with INEC directives and court orders.
In a statement issued by Yusuf Alkali, its secretary; Sokoto ADC said it has informed INEC and the police, which acknowledged their compliance, adding that only coalition-related activities would continue.
Also on Wednesday, the Bayelsa ADC suspended all ward, local government, and state congresses indefinitely, aligning with INEC’s directive to maintain status quo.
Johnny Derek, the state chairman of the party, in a statement, said no congresses would proceed until further notice to ensure compliance with the electoral body’s mandate.
On Thursday, Ondo ADC also suspended all scheduled ward, local government, and state congresses in adherence to INEC directive.
