A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) aligned with former Senate President David Mark plans to escalate its internal party dispute to foreign governments and international bodies. Bolaji Abdullahi, the faction's National Publicity Secretary, announced the move in a statement on Saturday, citing threats to Nigeria's democracy. The ADC is split between two factions—one led by Mr Mark and another by Nafiu Bala, former vice chairman of the party. On Wednesday, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) suspended recognition of both factions, citing a Court of Appeal directive requiring a return to the status quo pending a ruling by the Federal High Court in Abuja. Mr Mark's group has responded by demanding the resignation of INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan, accusing him of overreach. Mr Amupitan defended the commission's action, stating it was acting on court orders.
The faction claims its members face increasing attacks and suppression ahead of the 2027 elections. Mr Abdullahi said the party is launching a Special Representatives Network in global capitals including Washington DC, London, Brussels, and Addis Ababa to engage foreign governments, media, and democracy institutions. The network will provide briefings on political developments, human rights concerns, and electoral integrity. A National Documentation Initiative will also be launched to record incidents affecting political participation nationwide. "From Washington DC to London, Brussels to Addis Ababa, ADC is building a global platform for accountability. Nigeria's democracy must be seen, heard, and defended everywhere," Mr Abdullahi said.
David Mark's decision to take the ADC crisis to foreign capitals suggests a calculated shift from internal resolution to international pressure. By involving global actors, his faction is treating INEC's suspension not as a procedural issue but as a political threat tied to the 2027 elections. This move may amplify scrutiny on Nigeria's electoral process, but it also risks framing a domestic party dispute as a national democratic emergency. For Nigerians, it raises the question of whether such appeals will influence real change or simply become a tool for factional advantage.
