Nigeria’s political landscape witnessed another shake-up on Monday as Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima, widely known as OmoBarca, formally resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing deep-rooted leadership disputes and unresolved legal battles within the party.
In a development that has stirred fresh conversations among political observers, the Lagos-based grassroots politician announced his immediate withdrawal from the party, raising concerns about the ADC’s internal stability ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Resignation Letter Signals Loss of Confidence
According to details obtained by Akahi News, Hon. Chima’s resignation was conveyed in a formal letter dated May 4, 2026, addressed to the Ward Chairman of ADC in Ward 09, Alaba Oro, within Ajeromi Ifelodun Local Government Area of Lagos State.
Copies of the letter were also forwarded to the Local Government Chairman and the Lagos State leadership of the party, underscoring the seriousness of his decision.
In the letter, OmoBarca reportedly expressed deep concern over the prolonged legal disputes at the national level of the party, stating that the crisis had created uncertainty and weakened trust among members and supporters.
Akahi News gathered that the politician described the current state of the party as unstable, making it increasingly difficult for committed members to function effectively within its structure.
Internal Crisis and Legal Battles Take Centre Stage
The resignation comes at a time when the ADC has been grappling with multiple leadership disputes and legal controversies nationwide.
According to reports monitored by Akahi News, the party has recently been embroiled in disagreements over leadership recognition, particularly involving the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
These disputes, observers say, have led to confusion within party ranks, with competing factions laying claim to authority and legitimacy.
Hon. Chima, in his remarks, emphasised that political engagement requires a stable and organised platform, noting that the prevailing conditions within the ADC no longer provide such an environment.
“Every serious politician needs a conducive platform to serve effectively and retain the confidence of the electorate,” he reportedly stated.
Grassroots Impact in Ajeromi Ifelodun
Within Ajeromi Ifelodun LGA, where OmoBarca has built a reputation as a grassroots mobiliser, the resignation is already generating reactions.
Political stakeholders in the area told Akahi News that his exit could influence local political alignments, especially as early manoeuvrings for the 2027 elections begin to take shape.
Observers noted that OmoBarca’s influence among youths and community-based groups could make his next political move a significant factor in the local political equation.
A Pattern of Departures Within ADC
Hon. Chima’s resignation is not an isolated development. In recent months, the ADC has witnessed a growing wave of disaffection among its members, many of whom have cited similar concerns over leadership instability and internal conflicts.
Analysts who spoke with Akahi News suggested that unless the party resolves its internal disputes and presents a unified front, it may struggle to maintain relevance in Nigeria’s increasingly competitive political environment.
What Next for OmoBarca?
While announcing his resignation, Hon. Chima expressed appreciation to the ADC for the opportunity to serve, acknowledging the relationships and experiences he gained during his time in the party.
However, he stopped short of revealing his next political destination, stating that his future plans would be communicated to the public at the appropriate time.
This has sparked speculation among political watchers, with some predicting a possible alignment with a more established party ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Implications for 2027 Elections
The timing of the resignation is particularly noteworthy. With less than two years to the 2027 general elections, political realignments are gradually taking shape across the country.
Akahi News learnt that developments such as this could have broader implications, especially if more politicians follow suit in distancing themselves from parties facing internal crises.
For the ADC, the challenge now lies in restoring confidence, resolving legal disputes, and re-establishing internal cohesion to remain a viable political platform.
A Party at a Crossroads
Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima’s resignation underscores a deeper issue within the ADC — one that goes beyond individual grievances to reflect systemic challenges within the party’s leadership structure.
As Nigeria inches closer to another electoral cycle, the ability of political parties to maintain unity and organisational strength will play a decisive role in shaping outcomes.
Whether the ADC can weather this storm or continue to lose key members remains to be seen. For now, OmoBarca’s exit serves as yet another reminder that in politics, stability is not just desirable — it is essential.
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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