The leadership crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress (ADC) worsened on Thursday after a faction of the party announced the suspension of 15 senior members, including former National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, over alleged anti-party activities.

The decision was taken by the National Working Committee (NWC) loyal to Nafiu Bala during its regular meeting in Abuja. 

The faction said the affected members were suspended for six months for actions said to be capable of destabilising the party.

Others suspended alongside Nwosu include Balarabe Rufai, Ibrahim Mani, Bamidele Ajadi, Chike Okogwu, Anayo Arinze, Kenneth Gbandi, Said Abdullahi, Hauwa Musa, Nkem Ukandu, Peters Oyewole, Peter Edeh, Prince Festus Igbinoba and Razak Eyiwuawi.

In a statement, Bala accused the suspended members of engaging in activities that undermined party unity and disrupted internal harmony.

“The NWC has observed that some members have been involved in anti-party activities with coalition groups, creating disaffection among party faithful and hindering the smooth running of party affairs,” the statement said.

The faction said the suspensions were carried out in line with Article 15(a) of the party’s constitution.

The Bala-led NWC also disowned ongoing ward, local government and state congresses allegedly being organised by some members across the country, declaring them illegal.

According to the statement, any congress held without the approval of the recognised NWC is “null, void and of no effect,” and party members were directed to disregard their outcomes.

Beyond the suspensions, the meeting approved several new appointments aimed at strengthening the party’s administration. 

Kogi State lawmaker, Leke Abejide, was named Chairman of the Board of Patrons, while Bala Sani was appointed Chief of Staff to the National Chairman.

Other appointments include Abimiku Monday as Special Adviser on Strategic Communication, Muhammad Aboki as Director of Youth Mobilisation, Bello Shehu as Director of Finance, and Rabiu Mohammed as Administrative Secretary.

All appointees were directed to assume duties immediately.

The NWC also set up a four-man committee to conduct the Osun State governorship primary election, with Dr Rufus Ikanmi as chairman.

However, the latest decisions have further exposed deep divisions within the party. 

Abejide’s appointment, in particular, has heightened tensions, coming barely weeks after another ADC faction led by former Senate President David Mark ratified his expulsion from the party.

The Mark-led faction had earlier accused Abejide of indiscipline and even asked the House of Representatives to declare his seat vacant.