The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially accepted the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) under Senator David B. Mark as the party’s authentic National Executive Committee (NEC), ending months of internal wrangling and uncertainty within the party.
In a letter conveyed to the party secretariat in Abuja, INEC affirmed that the executives led by Senator Mark as National Chairman and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary remain the duly constituted leadership of the ADC. This recognition comes after prolonged legal and political disputes that had threatened to polarise the party and weaken its organisational structure ahead of upcoming electoral cycles.
Other officers confirmed by the electoral body include Dr. Ibrahim Ahmad Mani as National Treasurer, Akibu Dalhatu as National Financial Secretary, and Prof. Oserheimen Aigberaodion Osunbor as National Legal Adviser. The Commission noted that its decision was based on compliance with the party’s constitution and adherence to due process in the conduct of its last national convention.
This has lays to rest parallel leadership claims that had plagued the ADC and provides a clearer direction for party members nationwide. Analysts believe the development could reposition the party as a serious player in Nigeria’s crowded political space, especially as the country gears up for subsequent governorship and local elections.
In a reaction to the development, a senior party official described INEC’s recognition as “a victory for internal democracy and a restoration of order.” He added that the new leadership under Senator Mark is focused on rebuilding grassroots structures, deepening internal cohesion, and strengthening the ADC’s voice in national discourse.
The ADC, founded as a progressive alternative in Nigeria’s multiparty system, has often grappled with leadership tussles that undermined its electoral fortunes.
However, with INEC’s latest pronouncement, expectations are high that the Mark-led leadership will consolidate party unity and chart a strategic course toward expanding its political influence.
