Gbandi May Quit ADC as Factional Tensions Persist

Tensions within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) are showing no signs of easing. Beyond the widely reported speculation about former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi’s uncertain status with the party, fresh indications now point to another high-profile figure quietly weighing his options — former ADC Deputy National Chairman and diaspora leader, Hon. (Dr.) Kenneth Chibuogwu Gbandi.

Sources close to ADC legacy stakeholders indicate that Gbandi may be considering resignation following extensive consultations both within Nigeria and abroad. The speculation has gained traction after a recent gathering of legacy members, aspirants, and allies, where participants reportedly stressed inclusion, due process, internal democracy, and respect for the foundational structures that sustained the party across multiple election cycles.

Concerns linked to Gbandi’s camp focus on three key issues: the alleged removal of the ADC Diaspora Network from the party’s current constitution, claims of marginalisation of legacy members, and unresolved leadership disputes at both national and state levels.

The ADC’s internal crisis has been widely reported. A deepening factional struggle has produced rival leadership blocs issuing conflicting decisions, raising questions about authority and legitimacy ahead of future elections. A faction led by National Chairman Nafiu Bala Gombe in December 2025 announced a six-month suspension of Gbandi alongside 14 other senior figures, including former National Chairman Ralph Nwosu and Balarabe Rufai, over alleged anti-party activities.

Gbandi was appointed Deputy National Chairman for Diaspora Engagement in November 2020, having previously served as Chairman of NIDO Europe for two consecutive terms. The ADC Diaspora Network, often described by supporters as the party’s “seventh zone,” had been positioned as a platform for diaspora mobilisation, policy engagement, fundraising, and international visibility.

Observers familiar with Gbandi’s political trajectory suggest that any decision to exit the party would likely reflect a broader reassessment of its direction rather than a sudden move. His longstanding advocacy for due process and institutional accountability has been a consistent feature of his public engagement.

The party’s challenges extend to its legislative ranks. A member of the House of Representatives, Leke Abejide, who filed a lawsuit in August 2025 challenging the leadership of David Mark within the ADC, has since resigned from the party. He cited internal divisions and alleged that the organisation had been overtaken by competing interests, describing it as increasingly dysfunctional.

Neither Gbandi nor his associates have issued a formal statement confirming or denying the reported resignation plans. However, signals emerging from legacy stakeholders suggest that internal realignments may be unfolding within the party.

For many within the ADC’s founding bloc, the situation underscores a recurring concern: whether the party can maintain internal cohesion while balancing competing interests and evolving political ambitions ahead of future electoral contests.