ABUJA - The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has officially entered a state of internal turmoil following its National Convention held on Tuesday in Abuja. The party leadership, headed by National Chairman Senator David Mark, announced the immediate expulsion of several high-ranking members over alleged anti-party activities and constitutional violations.

The move has triggered a sharp response from former presidential candidate Dumebi Kachikwu, who dismissed the Abuja convention as "illegal" and announced plans for a separate national gathering.

The Expulsion: Enforcement of Party Discipline

The resolution to expel the erring members was ratified by delegates following a disciplinary motion presented during the convention. National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi confirmed that the affected individuals are no longer affiliated with the ADC and are "at liberty to explore other political platforms".

List of Expelled Members:

  • Hon. Leke Abejide and Nafiu Bala Gombe

  • Kingsley Temitope Ogga and Don Norman Obinna

  • Kennedy Odion, Clement Ehigiator, and Stella Chukwuma

  • Patrick Ambut, Johny TovieDerek, Duke Dick, and Elias Adikwu

Abdullahi emphasized that the party remains committed to the rule of law and internal democracy, stating that the ADC will continue to uphold high standards of accountability as a "viable alternative" for Nigerians.

The Resistance: Kachikwu Rejects ‘Political Gangsterism’

In a swift rebuttal, Dumebi Kachikwu held a press conference where he accused the David Mark-led faction of flouting court orders and inciting "political gangsterism". Kachikwu insisted that the "real ADC" is preparing for its own convention within legal boundaries.

Beyond party politics, Kachikwu criticized the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for its stance on court interference in internal party affairs. He also directed his attention to the electoral umpire, outlining specific conditions under which the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, should consider resignation.

The 2027 Factor: Dele Momodu Backs Atiku-Obi Ticket

Amidst the internal friction, media mogul Dele Momodu has suggested that the ADC could become a formidable force by pairing Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi on a joint presidential ticket. Momodu noted that the duo, who ran together in 2019, share a similar temperament and would easily consolidate their existing support bases.

Momodu further claimed that the emergence of strong opposition leaders within the ADC has caused "obvious panic" within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

What This Means for Nigeria

  • Opposition Fragmentation: The split in the ADC could weaken the party’s ability to present a unified front against the ruling APC in upcoming elections.

  • Legal Battles Ahead: With Kachikwu claiming the Abuja convention was a breach of court orders, the crisis is likely headed for a lengthy legal showdown.

  • Coalition Potential: The mention of an Atiku-Obi ticket suggests that major opposition figures may be looking at the ADC as a potential platform for a 2027 coalition.