Introduction
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) held its national convention in Abuja on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, amidst the significant internal strife and legal challenges.
The convention, which saw approximately 3,000 delegates converge at the Rainbow Event Center in Garki, aimed to elect a new National Working Committee (NWC) to steer the party’s affairs for the next four years.
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the convention, its key players, the controversies surrounding it, and its potential implications for the party’s future.
Convention Details and Venue Controversy
The convention’s primary objective was the election of a new NWC. However, the event was preceded by a dispute over the venue.
The ADC leadership initially claimed they were denied access to Eagle Square, a prominent venue in Abuja.
This claim was dismissed by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, who stated that no formal request for the venue had been submitted via the appropriate channels.
Consequently, the party secured the Rainbow Event Center, located adjacent to the Nigerian Police Force Hqts, as the new venue.
Security was notably heightened at the Rainbow Event Center, with personnel from the Nigeria Police and Department of State Services (DSS) conducting thorough checks on delegates and journalists.
This measure was likely in response to the tense political climate and the internal disagreements plaguing the party.
Legal and Regulatory Landscape
A significant cloud hanging over the convention was the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) stance on the party’s leadership.
INEC had previously withdrawn recognition of the David Mark-led national leadership following a Court of Appeal ruling, which mandated a return to the status quo ante-bellum.
Professor Joash Amupitan, the INEC Chairman, had warned the party against proceeding with its congresses and convention, indicating that doing so could violate existing court orders.Despite INEC’s position, the ADC leadership, including National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi, insisted on proceeding with the convention, arguing that INEC was overstepping supervisory role and attempting to halt lawful internal processes.
The party maintained that disputes do not suspend democratic functions and reaffirmed its commitment to proceeding in full compliance with the law.
Significantly, the Supreme Court was scheduled to hear an appeal by David Mark on the same day as the convention
seeking a stay of execution on the Court of Appeal judgment.Convention Committee and State Congresses
Ahead of the national convention, the ADC released an updated list of its Convention Committee and sub- committees to ensure a smooth and credible process.
The National Convention Central Coordination Committee was chaired by Liyel Imoke, former Governor of Cross River State, with Senator Aminu Tambuwal serving as his deputy.
Leading up to the national event, the ADC had conducted ward, local government, and state congresses across various states. While some states experienced minor setbacks, many successfully elected new state executives. Internal Conflicts and Future Outlook
Internal disagreements continue to simmer within the party. Notably, a dispute arose in Edo State between Senator Roland Owie and Chief John Odigie-Oyegun regarding the state
chairmanship.
Furthermore, Nafiu Bala Gombe, the former Deputy National Chairman, has challenged David Mark’s leadership, asserting his claim to the national chairmanship following the resignation of the previous NWC.
As of the latest reports, the convention went through some set back but actively ongoing, with accreditation of delegates done easily. The event is being covered live by major news outlets, highlighting its significance in shaping the party’s future.
The outcome of the elections for the new NWC will be crucial in determining the ADC’s direction and its preparedness for the upcoming 2027 general elections.
