Nafiu Bala, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) gubernatorial candidate for Gombe State in the 2023 elections, has declared himself the Interim National Chairman of the party, citing a leadership crisis instigated by individuals he labels “political hooligans.” Bala accuses these individuals, previously entrusted with party leadership, of abandoning their constitutional responsibilities and handing over party structures to external actors with no genuine connection to the ADC. This move, he argues, has plunged the party into a state of uncertainty and compromised its future. Bala has called upon the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to acknowledge this change in leadership and uphold the ADC’s constitution.
Bala’s denunciation of the existing leadership centers on their alleged abdication of duty and the unconstitutional transfer of power to outsiders. He criticizes their actions as a “show of shame” and “acts of lawlessness,” emphasizing the lack of moral restraint displayed in precipitating this needless crisis. The core of his argument rests on the principle that elected mandates and party authority cannot be arbitrarily transferred to non-members, a principle he believes is fundamental to democratic processes. He stresses that this unprecedented act of “total surrender and capitulation” violates the party’s established rules and constitutional provisions. Bala calls for respect for these guidelines and vows to challenge the “gross acts of impunity” through legal means if necessary.
Bala further claims that recent events within the ADC constitute a “political melodrama” where elected positions were exchanged with individuals outside the party, facilitating a comprehensive takeover of party structures. He underscores the gravity of this maneuver by deeming it unprecedented in Nigeria’s democratic journey. Bala expresses deep regret at having to publicize these internal struggles, but insists that he is left with no alternative but to defend his constitutional rights and those of the party against these alleged transgressions. His actions, he asserts, are motivated by the need to restore constitutional order and internal democracy within the ADC.
Invoking the ADC constitution, Bala highlights its provisions for succession and filling vacant positions, providing justification for his assumption of the Interim National Chairman role. He contends that this action is not a power grab but rather a necessary step to stabilize the party in accordance with its internal legal framework. He reinforces his commitment to respecting the rule of law within the party and emphasizes the importance of adherence to the established constitutional guidelines for navigating leadership transitions.
Bala’s plea to INEC is a crucial aspect of his strategy to legitimize his claim to the chairmanship. He urges the electoral body to urgently recognize his leadership, signifying his intention to engage with official institutions to solidify his position. This appeal to INEC indicates a desire to resolve the leadership crisis through official channels, bringing the internal dispute into the public domain and seeking external validation. His declaration signals a potentially protracted power struggle within the ADC, with the involvement of INEC likely to play a decisive role in determining the outcome.
The unfolding situation within the ADC reflects the complexities and challenges often encountered within political parties, particularly in the aftermath of elections. Bala’s actions represent a clear challenge to the existing power structure, driven by concerns about the party’s direction and adherence to its internal rules. His pronouncements highlight the tension between maintaining party unity and upholding democratic principles, setting the stage for a potentially defining moment in the ADC’s trajectory. The party’s response to Bala’s declarations and the subsequent involvement of INEC will be critical in determining the future leadership and direction of the ADC. This internal conflict also holds wider implications for the Nigerian political landscape, offering a glimpse into the dynamics of power struggles and the importance of internal democracy within political parties.
