By joshua 
CSOs Reject David Mark-led ADC Faction, Back Nafiu Bala as Legitimate Leader
ABUJA, April 10, 2026. A coalition of Civil Society Organisations,
Civil Society Coalition for Transparency
has declared support for the Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe-led leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), rejecting what it described as an “unconstitutional hijack” of the party structure by a group headed by Senator David Mark.
Rt. Comrade Mike Femi, spokesperson of the Coalition made the disclosure while briefing the press in Abuja during a protest at the Headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission.
He said the CSOs rose “in unity and with a shared sense of duty to reaffirm their unwavering commitment to the protection and advancement of democracy, the rule of law, and constitutional governance in Nigeria.”
The coalition accused the David Mark-led group of attempting to “usurp the legitimate leadership of the party” in violation of the ADC Constitution and existing judicial decisions.
Citing Article 9, Sub-Article 4 of the ADC Constitution, the CSOs noted that a member must have been in the party for at least two years to qualify for national and zonal leadership positions, and one year for state, local government, and ward positions, with no arrears in membership dues.
“This constitutional provision invalidates, null and void the illegal emergence and encroachment by the invaders in its entirety,” the statement read.
The CSOs made four declarations: Affirmed support for the rule of law as the cornerstone of democracy.
Called on all political actors to respect judicial pronouncements and constitutional provisions.
Rejected the David Mark-led leadership as “unconstitutional and unknown to the party.”
Hailed INEC’s delisting of the faction’s names and urged the commission to “fully comply in recognizing the legitimate Hon Nafiu Bala’s leadership on their portal and all databases and correspondence with immediate action as directed by the Court of Appeal.”
“Fellow Nigerians, our democracy must not only be preserved but strengthened. The rule of law must remain sacred and supreme. no individual or group of people is above the law,” the coalition said.
The group urged Nigerians to “remain peaceful, law-abiding, and vigilant” while INEC complies “100%” with the status quo ante bellum order of the Court of Appeal.
The statement closed with the line: “Impunity is temporary; the rule of law is enduring.”