Leaders and supporters of the troubled African Democratic Congress (ADC) have assembled in Abuja in advance of today’s Wednesday demonstration.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, the party’s National Chairman David Mark, and other opposition figures are among those anticipated to take part in the protest.
A protracted leadership conflict that has split the party and increased tensions within its ranks is the backdrop for the planned protest.
The Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) decision to stop recognizing David Mark’s leadership is at the core of the situation.
The action has made attempts to stabilize the party and settle the ongoing leadership dispute even more difficult.
Tuesday saw a worsening of the situation as a third faction emerged, further dividing the party.
A competing group led by former Deputy National Chairman Nafiu Bala Gombe, who is also vying for the party’s national presidency, has been engaged in a bitter power struggle with the Mark-dominated National Working Committee (NWC).
A new development was the announcement of the creation of a National Caretaker Committee by another group purportedly supporting former ADC presidential candidate Dumebi Kachukwu.
Supported by a few state chairmen, the group declared that the interim committee would manage the party’s operations until the problem was resolved.
With the most recent development, the ADC now seems to be divided into three rival groups, each of which is vying for control of the party’s leadership.
Some opposition leaders have claimed that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) may be responsible for the party’s predicament, despite internal divides.
They asserted that outside powers are trying to undermine the opposition in advance of upcoming elections.
