Dumebi Kachikwu accuses David Mark of hijacking ADC party structure amid court showdown
Dumebi Kachikwu accuses Mark of hijacking ADC structure
Nigeria’s political landscape is heating up ahead of the 2027 elections as a fresh crisis rocks the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Former presidential candidate Dumebi Kachikwu has accused former Senate President David Mark of orchestrating a forceful takeover of the party’s structure, triggering a legal and political showdown.
The allegations come just days after a Federal High Court in Abuja issued a ruling restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising congresses organised by a faction aligned with Mark.
Kachikwu Alleges Illegal Takeover of ADC Structures
Speaking during a televised interview, Kachikwu claimed that David Mark and his allies “pushed out” existing party executives and replaced them with loyalists through what he described as illegally constituted committees.
According to him, the ADC constitution clearly assigns the responsibility of conducting congresses and conventions to state chairmen, not centrally appointed committees.
He alleged that ad hoc committees were created to override legitimate state structures, allowing the Mark-led faction to install preferred candidates across the country.
Kachikwu further revealed that complaints poured in from party members nationwide, with many alleging they had been sidelined in the process.
Court Ruling Backs State Executives in ADC Dispute
The crisis took a decisive turn after the Federal High Court ruled against the Mark-led faction, barring INEC from recognising its congresses and restraining interference in the tenure of elected state executives.
The court maintained that only duly elected party organs have the authority to organise congresses, reinforcing the position held by Kachikwu and other aggrieved members.
Kachikwu described the judgment as long overdue, claiming it exposed what he called a “kangaroo convention” allegedly conducted by the faction.
He also alleged that the faction’s legal team denied holding a convention in court, even as proceedings were ongoing elsewhere, a claim that has further fueled controversy within the party.
David Mark Responds, Vows Legal Victory
In response, David Mark reassured party members that the ADC would remain on the ballot for the 2027 elections despite ongoing litigations.
Through a statement issued by the party’s publicity leadership, he confirmed that his legal team had filed an appeal and sought a stay of execution on the court ruling.
Mark insisted that the party would overcome its legal challenges and continue its political activities within the bounds of the law.
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Internal Party Fallout and Growing Tensions
Kachikwu also alleged that some state chairmen who initially supported the Mark-led faction later withdrew their backing after being sidelined.
He claimed that these leaders were dismissed as “commoners” and excluded from decision-making processes, prompting a reversal of their earlier support.
The situation has led to deep divisions within the party, with multiple factions now laying claim to legitimacy.
According to party insiders, the crisis has raised concerns about the ADC’s stability and its ability to present a united front ahead of the next general elections.
Supreme Court Set to Deliver Final Verdict
With tensions escalating, attention has now shifted to the Supreme Court, which is expected to deliver judgment on the appeal filed by Mark.
The case challenges an earlier directive for all parties to maintain the status quo in the leadership dispute.
Mark’s camp argues that the matter is strictly an internal party affair beyond judicial intervention, while opposing parties insist that constitutional breaches justify court involvement.
The outcome of the Supreme Court ruling is expected to have far-reaching implications for the future of the ADC.
Implications for 2027 Elections and Party Survival
Political analysts warn that the ongoing leadership tussle could weaken the ADC’s chances in the 2027 elections if not resolved quickly.
There are also fears that prolonged internal conflict could expose the party to potential deregistration by INEC if it fails to meet electoral performance thresholds.
Kachikwu, however, remains defiant, insisting that the ADC is “not for sale” and will emerge stronger from the crisis.
He urged party members to remain vigilant, emphasizing that the struggle is about preserving internal democracy and the integrity of the party.
ADC at a Crossroads
The escalating dispute between Dumebi Kachikwu and David Mark underscores a broader struggle for control within the ADC at a critical political moment.
With court rulings, internal divisions, and high-stakes appeals shaping the narrative, the party now faces a defining test of its unity and resilience.
As the countdown to 2027 begins, the ADC’s ability to resolve its internal crisis may ultimately determine its relevance in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
FAQ
What is the ADC crisis about?
The crisis involves a leadership dispute within the African Democratic Congress, with competing factions claiming control of the party structure.
Why did Dumebi Kachikwu accuse David Mark?
Kachikwu alleged that Mark and his allies illegally took over the party by replacing elected executives with loyalists through ad hoc committees.
What did the court rule in the ADC case?
The Federal High Court barred INEC from recognising congresses organised by the Mark-led faction and upheld the authority of elected state executives.
What is David Mark’s response to the allegations?
Mark denied wrongdoing and has appealed the court ruling, expressing confidence that his faction will win the legal battle.
Will ADC participate in the 2027 elections?
Yes, according to Mark’s camp, the party will remain on the ballot despite ongoing legal disputes.
What role does INEC play in this issue?
INEC is responsible for recognising party congresses and leadership structures, making its position critical in the dispute.
What is the significance of the Supreme Court ruling?
The Supreme Court’s decision could determine which faction has legitimate control of the party.
Could ADC be deregistered?
There are concerns that prolonged internal conflict could affect the party’s performance and risk deregistration by INEC.
What does this mean for Nigerian politics?
The crisis highlights ongoing challenges in internal party democracy and could influence political alignments ahead of 2027.
Who is Dumebi Kachikwu?
He is the 2023 presidential candidate of the ADC and a key figure in the current leadership dispute.