Footage: Nafiu Bala Mobilizes Backers to Election Commission, Seeks Legitimization of His ADC Splinter Group

Nafiu Bala, a prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress, marched to the Independent National Electoral Commission's headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, accompanied by a group of loyal supporters, thereby escalating the party's ongoing internal strife.

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This move came as Bala, who claims to be the rightful national chairman, is embroiled in a heated legal dispute with a faction led by former Senate President David Mark, with the two sides vying for control of the party.

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Bala's protest occurred a mere 24 hours after the Mark-led faction had staged a similar demonstration at the electoral commission's office, highlighting the deepening rift within the party.

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During the rally, Bala appealed to the electoral commission to acknowledge him as the legitimate national chairman, citing a ruling from the Court of Appeal as the basis for his claim.

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He also accused the rival faction of attempting to seize control of the party's leadership through unlawful means, alleging that they had engaged in fraudulent activities to legitimize their position.

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Bala condemned the actions of the Mark faction, stating that they had forged the signatures of genuine party members and leaders, thereby undermining the democratic process and violating the trust placed in them by their constituents.

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He expressed concern that such actions could have far-reaching implications, contributing to a culture of impunity and disillusionment among voters, and warned that the consequences of these actions extend beyond the party itself.

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Bala called upon the relevant authorities to investigate the allegations and ensure accountability, tracing the origins of the crisis to the resignation of Ralph Nwosu as national chairman.

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He urged the electoral commission to update its records to reflect his position as national chairman, arguing that this move would be in line with the court's ruling and help to stabilize the party.

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The leadership struggle within the African Democratic Congress has intensified in recent weeks, with both factions exchanging accusations and seeking to establish their legitimacy through legal and political means.

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Despite the escalating tensions, the electoral commission has maintained its stance of non-recognition, pending a final decision from the courts, leaving the party's fate uncertain.