The All Progressives Congress on Thursday criticised the leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress, describing the party as the “author of its own fate” amid deepening internal turmoil.The ruling party’s reaction follows the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withdraw recognition of a faction of the ADC led by David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola, while also declining to recognise another faction led by Nafiu Bala Gombe.In a statement and social media post on Thursday, APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, described the emergence of Mark and Aregbesola as an irregular takeover that violated the party’s constitution and due process.He characterised the development as a “chaotic power grab,” alleging that the leadership transition disregarded internal rules and Nigeria’s legal framework for political party administration.“When its factional leadership under the duo of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola parachuted into the party like thoughtless and planless commandos, and hijacked the party in violent violation of its constitutional stipulations regarding leadership succession, and in disregard of the rule of law, the ADC set its own date with destiny,” Morka said.The APC also dismissed accusations by the ADC that the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu was threatened by the party’s growing profile.According to Morka, the ADC has instead become known for what he described as “conspiracy theories” about the APC’s role in its internal challenges.He further argued that INEC’s decision to de-recognise the Mark-led leadership, in line with a court judgment, was lawful and consistent with democratic practice.“The decision is valid in law, justified in fact, and consistent with electoral policy. It is the consequence of the party’s reckless and desperate misadventure,” he said, adding that it was “irresponsible” for the ADC to blame the APC for its internal crisis.The APC maintained that the ADC’s inability to manage its internal affairs and adhere to due process undermines its credibility as a political platform.“A party that cannot fix itself cannot possibly fix Nigeria,” Morka stated, accusing the opposition party of lacking clear policy direction and focusing instead on criticism of the ruling party.He added that the APC-led government remains committed to its governance agenda, including strengthening democratic institutions and promoting national unity and development.
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