The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared its support for the Senator David Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC), distancing itself from recent opposition voiced by some state chairmen. In a statement signed by the FCT Publicity Secretary, Nwigbo Samuel, the chapter urged members to prioritize unity and resolve disputes internally rather than resorting to litigation.
The statement emphasized that internal conflicts weaken the party and create openings for external destabilization. It called on aggrieved members to use the party’s dispute resolution mechanisms instead of pursuing court cases. “A house divided against itself will never stand,” the chapter noted, stressing that collective progress depends on solidarity.
The FCT chapter also appealed to party leaders to intervene and restore calm. It urged members to embrace sportsmanship and inclusivity, adding that lasting peace and unity are essential for the ADC to achieve its political goals. The statement expressed confidence that the party could challenge the current government if internal divisions are addressed.
This endorsement comes at a time of heightened tension within the ADC. Rival factions have contested control of the party, leading to legal battles and conflicting claims of legitimacy. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recently withdrew recognition of the Mark-led leadership following a court order directing the commission to maintain the status quo until the resolution of a suit challenging Mark’s position. INEC also removed Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its portal and declined to recognize Nafiu Bala, who sought to be declared national chairman.
The dispute has spilled into public demonstrations. On Wednesday, ADC leaders and members staged a protest in Abuja under the banner #OccupyINEC. The demonstration, held at Maitama Roundabout, drew prominent politicians and former presidential candidates, including Rotimi Amaechi, Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Rauf Aregbesola, Aminu Tambuwal, and Dino Melaye. Hundreds of Kwankwasiyya supporters also joined, signaling broad discontent with INEC’s handling of the matter.
The FCT chapter’s statement underscored the importance of focusing on the collective interest of Nigerians rather than individual ambitions. It urged members to strengthen the party ahead of the general elections, warning that internal divisions could undermine its ability to compete effectively. “Our collective interest far outweighs our individual quests. If ADC succeeds, we all succeed,” the statement concluded.
The ongoing crisis reflects broader challenges facing Nigeria’s political parties, where leadership disputes often escalate into prolonged legal battles and weaken organizational cohesion. For the ADC, the FCT chapter’s support for the Mark-led NWC highlights a push for stability amid uncertainty. Whether this call for unity will resonate across other chapters remains to be seen, but the statement signals a clear effort to consolidate support and prepare the party for upcoming electoral contests.
At its core, the message from the FCT chapter is a reminder that political strength depends on internal harmony. By urging members to resolve disputes within party structures and avoid divisive court cases, the chapter seeks to reinforce the ADC’s credibility and readiness to challenge opponents. The coming months will test whether this appeal can bridge factional divides and restore confidence in the party’s leadership.
In summary, the ADC’s FCT chapter has reaffirmed loyalty to Senator David Mark’s leadership, condemned internal disputes, and called for unity as the party navigates a turbulent period. With INEC’s withdrawal of recognition and ongoing protests, the ADC faces a critical moment that will shape its future role in Nigeria’s political landscape. The chapter’s stance reflects a broader desire to stabilize the party and position it as a credible alternative in the nation’s democratic process.
