A member of the House of Representatives representing Yagba Federal Constituency in Kogi State, Leke Abejide, has alleged that key political figures have taken control of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) without due process, worsening the party’s internal crisis.
Abejide made the claim on Thursday during an appearance on Politics Today, where he criticised the leadership bloc associated with former Senate President, David Mark.
Asked to name those he accused of hijacking the party, the lawmaker identified Mark, former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola, and others. He argued that their emergence did not follow established procedures, noting that existing members were neither consulted nor carried along.
“If you want to come to a party, and it is not a fresh one, you should know that some people are there. Why don’t you meet with them first and discuss?” he said.
Abejide further disclosed that he had no prior engagement with other prominent figures linked to the coalition, including Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, and Peter Obi.
“No, I have never met with them. None of them has ever met me,” he stated.
He dismissed suggestions that his position was politically motivated, insisting instead on adherence to party rules and constitutional provisions.
“I am not a sellout. It is not because they didn’t consult me; let us do things according to the law. This party cannot be destroyed,” he said.
The lawmaker maintained that those currently claiming leadership positions were not valid members of the party at the time they assumed office, adding that proper procedures such as registration, notification to INEC, and a national convention were not followed.
He outlined that a 21-day notice to INEC and constitutional amendments should have preceded any leadership changes, stressing that failure to follow due process had triggered the current disputes.
The ADC has in recent weeks faced escalating internal divisions, with multiple factions laying claim to leadership and legal challenges complicating efforts to resolve the crisis.
