INEC Endorses David Mark-Led Faction as Authentic Leaders of ADC Amid Fierce Party Battle

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially recognized the David Mark-led faction as the authentic leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), putting to rest months of internal wrangling and political intrigue within the party.

According to a publication on its official website, the electoral umpire confirmed former Senate President, David Mark, as the party’s National Chairman, alongside a lineup of prominent figures now constituting the executive committee.

The INEC list names Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary, Ibrahim Ahmad Mani as National Treasurer, Akibu Dalhatu as National Financial Secretary, and Prof. Oserheimen Aigberaodion Osunbor, a former governor of Edo State, as National Legal Adviser.

This development comes after weeks of heated tussle over the soul of the party, following a coalition of political heavyweights signaling their intention to use the ADC as a political platform ahead of the 2027 general elections.

However, a rival faction of the ADC had vehemently opposed the coalition’s move, arguing that the likes of Mark, Aregbesola, and others were not bona fide members of the party. They insisted that the “new entrants” had no legal or moral claim to its leadership.

With INEC’s latest pronouncement, the balance of power has clearly tilted in favor of the David Mark-led group, potentially reshaping political calculations as the countdown to 2027 begins.

Political watchers say the decision could set the stage for fresh alliances and power blocs within the opposition, especially as Nigeria edges closer to what is expected to be one of the most hotly contested elections in recent history.