The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is facing heightened internal tension after one of its factions formally endorsed Dumebi Kachikwu as its exclusive presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.
Convention Endorses Kachikwu
Elias Adikwu, who serves as both the Electoral Committee Chairman and the Benue State chairman of the party, announced the endorsement during a convention attended by party delegates. The decision was subsequently ratified by the assembled delegates.
In a symbolic gesture, the newly elected National Chairman of the faction, Abdulkadir Mohammed Bashir, presented the party flag to Kachikwu, signifying his mandate to lead the faction into the upcoming election.
Leadership Positions Filled
The convention also saw the election of new members to the National Working Committee. The appointed officials are:
- Kingsley Oggah – Chairman, Board of Trustees
- Johnny Tovie Derek – Deputy National Chairman
- Kennedy O. Odion – National Secretary
- Dr Joe Aroh – National Treasurer
- Chief Amirigoye – National Financial Secretary
- Dr Chris Ugwu – National Legal Adviser
- Elias Adikwu – National Organising Secretary
- Patrick Ambut – National Chief Whip
Background of the Rival Faction
The development follows a separate national convention held by a rival ADC faction on April 14, 2026, in Abuja. Led by former Senate President David Mark, that gathering amended the party’s constitution and confirmed Mark as the substantive National Chairman.
Over 1,000 delegates voted to ratify the constitutional amendments and affirm Mark’s leadership of the National Working Committee. In the same session, the Mark‑led faction expelled several members, including factional chairman Nafiu Bala and Representative Leke Abejide, citing alleged anti‑party activities and the escalation of internal disputes to the courts.
Implications for the Party
The parallel leadership structures underscore a deepening split within the ADC, raising questions about the party’s cohesion and electoral prospects in 2027. As both factions prepare for the general election, the internal rift could influence voter perception and the party’s ability to present a united front.
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