The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally recognised the new leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) under the chairmanship of former Senate President, Senator David Mark.
The electoral umpire updated its official website on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, confirming the recognition of the newly constituted National Working Committee (NWC) of the ADC.
According to INEC’s record, the recognised leaders include Senator David Mark as National Chairman, former Minister of Interior Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary, Dr. Mani Ibrahim Ahmad as National Treasurer, Akibu Dalhatu as National Financial Secretary, and Prof. Oserheimen Aigberaodion Osunbor as National Legal Adviser.
This decision marks a significant turn in the fortunes of the ADC, effectively settling a protracted leadership crisis that had plagued the party since July 2025 when the opposition coalition adopted the ADC as its new political platform and endorsed David Mark as interim National Chairman.
The recognition by INEC grants the Mark-led leadership the authority to submit candidates for elections, represent the party in official capacities, and reposition the ADC ahead of the 2027 general elections. Political observers see the move as pivotal in clearing internal obstacles and enabling the party to consolidate its position in the build-up to the polls.
However, the recognition has not put an end to all disputes. Dumebi Kachikwu, the ADC’s 2023 presidential candidate, has rejected the development, insisting he will only accept a leadership resolution sanctioned by the courts. Other factions, including allies of former National Chairman Ralph Nwosu and former Deputy National Chairman Nafiu Bala, have also taken legal steps to challenge the new leadership arrangement.
Despite the legal contestations, INEC’s recognition provides the David Mark-led ADC with institutional legitimacy to run the affairs of the party. The development is expected to reshape political calculations, as the ADC attempts to reposition itself as a credible alternative in Nigeria’s democratic space.
With this formal recognition, the ADC appears set to put its internal wrangling behind and begin serious preparations for the 2027 general elections, even as aggrieved factions continue their legal battles.