The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has congratulated its newly elected state executives and chairmen, praising the peaceful conduct of its recent congresses as a demonstration of its commitment to internal democracy and the rule of law.
In a statement released on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party announced that the inauguration of the new officials is scheduled for May 12, 2026, or a later date to be communicated by its leadership.
The party urged the incoming officials to remain committed to its ideals and align with the vision of its National Chairman, David Mark, as they assume responsibilities aimed at strengthening the party’s structure nationwide.
“The African Democratic Congress (ADC) congratulates all newly elected state executives and state chairmen across the federation on the successful and peaceful conduct of their congresses,” the statement read.
“These elections, carried out in line with the provisions of the law and the party’s constitution, reflect the ADC’s enduring commitment to internal democracy, transparency, and the rule of law.
”We commend all party members and stakeholders for exercising their democratic rights with maturity, discipline, and a shared sense of purpose.”
The party confirmed that the formal swearing-in ceremony will take place on May 12, noting that any adjustment to the date would be communicated by the National Working Committee.
“As you prepare to assume office, we urge all elected officials to remain steadfast in their dedication to the ideals and vision of the party.
”The task ahead requires unity, discipline, and a continued commitment to building a strong, credible alternative for the Nigerian people,” the statement added.
Despite internal challenges, the ADC expressed confidence that the newly elected leaders would deepen the party’s grassroots structures and strengthen its engagement with citizens across the country.
The congresses were conducted amid a leadership dispute involving the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which had earlier announced the derecognition of the party’s leadership following a court ruling.
However, a party chieftain and founder, Ralph Nwosu, defended the decision to proceed with the congresses, insisting that the party acted within the bounds of the law.
Speaking ahead of the exercise, Nwosu said the ADC would not allow INEC’s position to disrupt its planned activities.
“We are taking the necessary action both in court and with INEC, but we will not allow INEC to derail any of our programmes.
”After that malicious INEC release, our chairman and the rest of us sat together and decided to move ahead,” he said.
He maintained that the party had duly submitted its programme to INEC in line with electoral regulations and that all dates had been acknowledged.
“By the electoral law, whether they show up or not is their own volition; we have not violated anything.
”The congresses have already started. Our national convention, slated for the 14th, will also go on, where we will validate everything we’ve done,” Nwosu added.
He further stressed that the party remains focused on building a leadership structure driven by purpose and reform.
“We don’t want opportunists in the ADC; we want mission-driven leaders who have the courage to challenge a bad system,” he said.
Nwosu also disclosed that the ADC would continue to notify INEC of its activities, including its planned national convention for selecting presidential and other candidates, while maintaining that it would proceed regardless of the commission’s stance.
“If they don’t accept it, we will publish it to all Nigerian media because they represent the people,” he said.
The party’s move signals its determination to press ahead with internal processes despite ongoing legal and administrative disputes, as it positions itself for future electoral contests.
