ADC Defies INEC, Appoints Imoke, Tambuwal, Ajuji to Lead National Convention
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has taken a bold step by constituting a 22-member National Convention Central Coordination Committee (NCCCC), despite the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) maintaining its stance against the leadership of the Senator David Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC). This move signals the party's determination to proceed with its planned national convention, scheduled for next Tuesday, amidst escalating tensions with the electoral body.
Leadership and Committee Structure
The central committee will be chaired by former Cross River State Governor, Senator Liyel Imoke, with former Sokoto State Governor, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, serving as Vice Chairman. Dr. Ajuji Ahmed has been appointed as Secretary. This core team will be supported by 339 members distributed across 11 standing committees, barring any last-minute changes. Other notable members of the central planning committee include former Imo State Governor, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha; retired Commissioner of Police, Tajudeen Bakare; Aminu Abubakar Gwarzo; Hon. Emeka Nwajuba; and Solomon Lalong, among others.
Detailed Committee Assignments
The 11 committees have been meticulously organized to ensure a smooth convention process. The Legal and Convention Processes Committee will be led by Olumide Akpata as Chairman-designate, with Lilian Oraogbu as Vice Chairman and Hon. Chille Wanger Igbawua as Secretary. Other key committees include:
- Programmes and Events Sub-committee, chaired by Senator Victor Umeh
- Medical Sub-committee, chaired by Dr Tony Nwoye
- Entertainment Sub-committee, chaired by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe
- Protocol Sub-committee, headed by Senator Gilbert Nnaji
- Welfare Sub-committee, led by Senator Mohammed Ogoshi
- New Media Sub-committee, chaired by Hon. Afam Ogene
- Delegates and Accreditation Committee, headed by Senator Ireti Kingibe
- Finance Committee, chaired by Senator Austin Ibrahim
- Media and Publicity Committee, led by Senator Lawal Adamu Usman
- Venue Sub-committee, by Senator Binos Yaroe
- Security Sub-committee, by AVM Suleiman Adamu (Rtd)
Political Standoff with INEC
The David Mark-led ADC has vowed to proceed with its national convention despite INEC's repeated warnings and position against its leadership. The party has accused INEC of partisanship, calling for the resignation of its chairman and national commissioners. ADC alleges that INEC's actions threaten democracy by aiming to weaken opposition parties, potentially leading to a one-party state under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration. The party argues that INEC lacks constitutional authority to interpret court rulings arbitrarily.
Legal Actions and Future Plans
In response, the David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola-led NWC has approached the court to nullify INEC's position and compel the commission to restore the party's leadership on its official portal. As activities leading up to the convention have commenced, the ADC remains steadfast in its preparations, highlighting a significant political confrontation that could impact Nigeria's electoral landscape.
