A factional National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, Nafiu Bala, has rejected the national convention held on April 14 by the David Mark-led faction, describing it as illegal and a violation of court orders.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that Bala made this known during a press conference in Abuja on Friday.
Bala said the exercise was conducted in defiance of a subsisting Court of Appeal judgment.
“Any action taken in flagrant disregard of the Court of Appeal judgment delivered on 12th March, 2026 is not only of questionable legality but is liable to be declared null and void,” he said.
He also pointed to the absence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at the convention as evidence of its lack of legitimacy.
“The noticeable absence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from the convention strongly indicates that the process lacks official recognition and cannot stand judicial scrutiny as to its legitimacy,” Bala stated.
The factional chairman accused the organisers of violating the party’s constitution and engaging in acts of lawlessness.
He noted that the matter remains before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, adding that proceeding with the convention amounted to a breach of due process.
Bala further alleged that the dispute had taken a criminal dimension, accusing the rival faction of forging his signature on documents.
He said the alleged act was aimed at damaging his reputation.
Bala distanced his faction from the actions of the Mark-led group, insisting they are not recognised members of the party.
He added, “As far as the duly-constituted and legitimate leadership of the party is concerned, the coalition group are not members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
“Consequently, they lack the requisite locus standi to convene or conduct any congress or convention, and any resolution or decision emanating from such gatherings are devoid of legal effect.”