Political Tension Erupts in ADC Amid Factional Dispute Over Coalition Takeover

Abuja, Nigeria | July 2, 2025, 11:53 PM WAT — Internal discord within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has intensified following allegations that the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu, accused founder and longtime Chairman Ralph Nwosu of orchestrating a surreptitious coalition takeover.

Coalition Under Fire

Earlier today, commentator Oseni Rufai shared on X that Kachikwu claimed the opposition alliance led by Atiku Abubakar infiltrated the ADC via a faction headed by Nwosu. Kachikwu, who secured the ADC ticket through an indirect primary in 2022, reportedly described the move as a “takeover” by “yesterday’s men,” insisting it lacked legitimacy.

He is quoted questioning the process:

“Can you build something on nothing? Can you shave a man’s hair in his absence? Can you enter a man’s house through the back door and declare yourself the landlord?” 

Factional Pushback

This challenge spotlights a brewing factional crisis. A group identifying as “Concerned Stakeholders of the ADC”—including women, youth, and state-level party executives—has publicly repudiated the coalition adoption, asserting it bypassed constitutional and democratic processes.

These critics argue the takeover amounted to a “hijack” and underscored unresolved legal entanglements from the 2023 leadership wrangle.

INEC's Official Position

Despite disputes about legitimacy, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) still recognises Ralph Nwosu as ADC’s official National Chairman, citing his registration credentials. This recognition casts doubt on the procedural basis for the takeover.

Implications for ADC and the 2027 Election

The ADC’s leadership turmoil arrives at a critical juncture. With the party adopted as the opposition’s proposed national platform—featuring figures such as David Mark, Rauf Aregbesola, and others—the infighting risks undermining its unity and messaging against the ruling APC.

BusinessDay reported that such internal wrangling may jeopardize broader coalition efforts if not swiftly resolved .

What's Next?

As of Wednesday, July 2, neither Nwosu nor Kachikwu has issued a direct statement on the issue. Momentum appears to be building around calls for:

• A ADC constitutional convention or NEC meeting to settle leadership concerns.

• Resolution of ongoing legal disputes stemming from 2022-2023 internal friction, which ADC stakeholders view as obstacles to full coalition integration.

Looking Ahead

With the 2027 elections approaching, the ADC stands at a crossroads. Its success as an opposition vehicle hinges on resolving internal rifts and restoring confidence among stakeholders. Analysts warn that unresolved factionalism could drive supporters toward larger parties like the PDP or APC.

Reporting by News House
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