The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has concluded its national convention in Abuja with major structural and political changes, including a constitutional amendment and the inauguration of a new National Working Committee (NWC) led by David Mark.
At the convention held at the Rainbow Event Centre, delegates overwhelmingly approved amendments to the party’s constitution, with 1,471 out of 1,576 accredited voters (94%) supporting the move, according to Emeka Ihedioha, chairman of the ADC Electoral Sub-Committee.
Key resolutions ratified included waivers on membership requirements, suspension of zoning arrangements for executive positions, and changes to succession rules within the party structure. The convention also formally dissolved the Chief Ralph Nwosu-led NWC, paving the way for the Mark-led leadership to take full control of party affairs.
In a decisive move, the party expelled several members over alleged anti-party activities, including factional chairman Nafiu Bala and lawmaker Leke Abejide, alongside other prominent figures.
In his address, Mark described the convention as highly organized and declared it the starting point of the party’s ambition to capture power at the presidential level in 2027.
The event also featured strong political statements from leading opposition figures. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of undermining democracy, while Peter Obi warned that Nigeria’s rising debt profile could lead to economic disaster.
Similarly, former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi raised alarm over worsening insecurity, likening recent incidents to civil war conditions.
Meanwhile, former Interior Minister Rauf Aregbesola criticized President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, calling it ineffective amid ongoing economic hardship.
Despite the absence of monitoring by INEC due to a court ruling, the ADC proceeded with its congresses and convention, signaling a firm push to reposition the party ahead of future elections.
