Top opposition leaders and members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) are currently gathered in Abuja to address the country over the leadership crisis rocking the party.
The meeting, which is taking place at the Yar’Adua Centre in the Federal Capital Territory, is expected to outline the party’s position following recent developments involving the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Among those present at the gathering are former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the National Chairman of the ADC, Senator David Mark, and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola.
Also in attendance are former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi.
Other political figures at the event include former Cross River State Governor Liyel Imoke, Alhaji Kashim Iman, former Edo State Governor John Odigie-Oyegun, and former ADC National Chairman Ralph Nwosu, among others.
The gathering follows a decision by INEC on Wednesday to withdraw recognition of David Mark, Rauf Aregbesola, and other members of the party’s National Working Committee pending the resolution of the leadership dispute in court.
INEC also announced that it would not monitor the ADC national convention scheduled for April 14, stating that it would maintain the status quo until the matter is determined.
In a statement, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, said the commission had also rejected a request for Nafiu Bala Gombe to assume control of the party.
“The commission has also declined the request to allow Nafiu Bala Gombe to take over the affairs of the party pending the court’s decision,” Haruna said.
He added that INEC would suspend all dealings with factions of the party.
“It will not receive further communication from, or deal with, any of the contending groups on matters relating to the party’s affairs,” the statement said.
Haruna further noted that the electoral body would not monitor any political activities organised by any faction of the ADC.
“The commission will not monitor any meeting, congress or convention convened by any faction of the ADC until the case is determined,” he stated.
