Despite INEC warnings, ADC constitutes 361-member convention planning committee

Barring any last minute change, Liyel Imoke, the former governor of Cross River State, will lead the 361-member National Convention Central Coordination Committee of the David Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, former governor of Sokoto State, will serve as vice chairman of the committee, while Ajuji Ahmed has been appointed secretary. The national convention is slated for April 14, 2026.

Sources within the party told BusinessDay that preparations for the convention were in full swing, with several committees already constituted to handle key aspects of the event.

The development came amid a lingering leadership crisis within the party.  The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recently announced that it would no longer recognise or process correspondence from the Mark-led leadership of the ADC, citing a Court of Appeal ruling related to the dispute.

However, the Mark-led NWC has rejected INEC’s interpretation of the judgement and insisted that it would proceed with the planned national convention and other internal party processes.

Prominent political figures backing the Mark camp including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi; former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso; and former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola , had staged a protest to challenge INEC’s position.

Former governor of Imo State, Emeka Ihedioha; former Minister of State for Education, Emeka Nwajuba; FCT Senator, Ireti Kingibe and other prominent members of the ADC have been listed to play key roles in the planning committee.

Sources have disclosed that the  committee will soon be officially inaugurated. (BusinessDay)