A member of the House of Representatives, Leke Abejide, has accused prominent political figures of unlawfully taking control of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the situation as a “hijack” of the party’s structure.
Abejide made the allegation during an appearance on a television programme, where he criticised the emergence of a faction led by former Senate President David Mark. He claimed that key figures, including former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola, were among those responsible.
When asked to identify those he referred to as hijackers, Abejide said, “Former Senate President David Mark, former Governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, and the rest.”
The lawmaker faulted the process that produced the current leadership, arguing that established party members were sidelined and not properly consulted.
“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 also dismissed claims that he had been excluded for personal reasons, insisting, “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.”
Citing provisions of the party’s constitution, he argued that those who assumed leadership positions did not meet the necessary requirements at the time.
“As at the time they sat on their seats, they had not registered in their wards. They were not members of the ADC as at the time they took over,” he said.
He further outlined what he described as the proper procedure for leadership transition, noting that due notice and constitutional processes were not followed before the takeover.
The ADC has recently been engulfed in a multi-factional leadership crisis, with competing groups laying claim to control of the party. The situation intensified after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declined to recognise the Mark-led executive, following a Court of Appeal ruling directing parties to maintain the status quo pending resolution of the dispute.
The internal conflict has led to protests by rival factions and ongoing legal battles, raising concerns about the party’s stability ahead of future political engagements.
