By Our Correspondent

National News – A deepening leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has disrupted its planned state congresses across Nigeria, creating uncertainty ahead of future elections.

The turmoil involves three major factions led by former Senate President David Mark, Nafiu Bala Gombe, and a coalition of state chairmen, all contesting control of the party’s structure.

The crisis escalated after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) withdrew recognition from the Mark-led National Working Committee.

In response, Gombe and his supporters staged a protest at INEC headquarters in Abuja, demanding official recognition and accusing rival leaders of attempting to hijack the party.

Lawmaker Leke Abejide backed the call, insisting that constitutional procedures must guide leadership selection.

The situation has forced multiple states, including Adamawa, Anambra, Ondo, Niger, and Oyo, to suspend their congresses due to court orders, INEC directives, or internal disagreements.

In Adamawa, a High Court halted the process pending legal determination, while Anambra officials cited respect for judicial authority as the reason for postponement.

However, divisions persist nationwide. Some states like Plateau and Jigawa have vowed to proceed with their congresses, insisting they have complied with electoral guidelines.

Others, such as Kaduna and Osun, remain sharply divided, with rival factions issuing conflicting directives and claims of legitimacy.

Meanwhile, the Mark-led faction has approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking an order compelling INEC to restore its leadership recognition.

The suit argues that the electoral body misinterpreted a Court of Appeal ruling, thereby creating a leadership vacuum and worsening internal tensions.