African Democratic Congress (ADC) management disaster escalated on Thursday as a faction led by Nafiu Bala Gombe staged a protest on the headquarters of the Unbiased Nationwide Electoral Fee (INEC) in Abuja, demanding formal recognition.
A whole lot of supporters, largely youths, accompanied Bala to INEC, insisting that the fee replace its data to replicate him because the nationwide chairman of the ADC, pending the end result of an ongoing court docket case over the dispute.
Bala’s faction cited the reported resignation of Ralph Nwosu, former nationwide chairman as justification for his succession underneath the occasion’s structure.
In the course of the protest, Bala accused the rival faction, led by David Mark, former Senate President of trying to hijack the occasion.
Bala mentioned, “We’re right here to induce INEC to comply with due course of. You can not come into the ADC by the backdoor and try to take over management from those that constructed the occasion.
“As democrats, we is not going to enable moneybags to destroy inside democracy. The ADC belongs to all Nigerians, from the ward stage to the nationwide stage.”
Supporting Bala, Leke Abejide, home of representatives member known as on INEC to withstand what he described as an tried takeover.
“The occasion’s structure is evident. You need to spend a minimum of two years as an lively member earlier than aspiring for any place. These people are hijackers, and INEC should restore the established order by recognising Nafiu Bala as Nationwide Chairman,” he mentioned.
Mohammed Sahad, ADC director of youths and mobilisation additionally urged INEC to formally recognise Bala, whereas Comrade Isa Onimisi, the President of the Nationwide Youth Council of Nigeria said his presence was in solidarity with Nigerian youths, not a political faction.
Abdullahi Abdu Zuru, INEC nationwide commissioner addressed the protesters, assuring them that their submissions can be reviewed.
“The fee will look into your submission and supply suggestions. Thanks for conducting yourselves peacefully,” he mentioned.
The protest follows an indication by the Mark-led faction the day past underneath the #OccupyINEC banner, highlighting deepening divisions throughout the ADC forward of upcoming elections.