ADC Faction Submits Presidential Candidate Details to INEC for 2027 Elections

A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by National Chairman Nafiu Bala Gombe has announced that it successfully uploaded the particulars of its presidential and National Assembly candidates to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) nomination portal in preparation for the 2027 general elections.

Candidate Names and Background

The faction declared Chris Uba, a 71‑year‑old politician from Anambra State, as its presidential standard‑bearer. Uba attended the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and pursued further studies in the United Kingdom.

His running mate is Dr Shamsuddeen Modibbo Barkindo, a 65‑year‑old indigene of Adamawa State who graduated from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. The faction described Barkindo as a competent, credible, and experienced leader capable of tackling Nigeria’s economic, security, and developmental challenges.

Compliance with Electoral Guidelines

According to the faction, the submission was carried out in strict adherence to Section 29(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 and the nomination guidelines issued by INEC. National Chairman Gombe emphasized that the process fulfilled all legal requirements, including the attachment of sworn affidavits (Form EC9) for each candidate.

Party Readiness and Internal Dispute

The faction said the upload demonstrates its readiness to contest the 2027 elections and field candidates for both the presidency and National Assembly seats. However, the announcement has intensified a rivalry within the ADC, as a rival bloc led by Senator David Mark’s caretaker committee contests the legitimacy of the Gombe‑led leadership.

Court of Appeal Ruling on Leadership Dispute

The Court of Appeal in Abuja recently upheld an earlier Federal High Court order that restrains INEC from recognizing state congresses organized by the Mark‑led caretaker leadership. In a split decision, two justices affirmed that the responsibility for organizing state congresses lies with duly elected state executive committees, not the national caretaker body. Justice Abba Mohammed dissented, arguing that the matter is an internal party affair beyond judicial jurisdiction.

As of now, it remains unclear whether INEC has formally accepted the list submitted by the Gombe‑led faction as the official ADC nomination for the 2027 elections. The ongoing legal tussle continues to shape the party’s prospects ahead of the polls.