ADC Blasts INEC Over Party Leadership Dispute, Alleges Political Interference Ahead of 2027 Polls
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over what it described as a “misinterpretation” of a recent Court of Appeal pronouncement, accusing the electoral umpire of yielding to alleged political pressure from the ruling establishment.
The development marks a fresh twist in the internal leadership crisis rocking the opposition party, coming amid shifting political alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
INEC had, on Wednesday, announced the removal of the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its official portal as National Chairman and National Secretary of the ADC, respectively. The Commission further declared that it would suspend recognition of all factions within the party pending the final determination of a substantive suit before the Federal High Court.
In addition, INEC stated that it would not monitor any conventions or congresses organised by any of the contending factions, effectively freezing the party’s formal activities for the time being.
The Commission also declined to recognise Nafiu Bala Gombe, who is seeking judicial affirmation as national chairman, thereby deepening uncertainty over the party’s leadership structure.
The electoral body’s decision followed mounting tensions within the party, including a protest staged in Abuja on Tuesday by a group demanding the derecognition of the Mark-led leadership.
The crisis comes on the heels of high-profile political movements into the ADC, notably the defection of Rabiu Kwankwaso, a prominent political figure from Kano, as well as indications from the Governor of Bauchi State of plans to join the party – developments widely seen as boosting the ADC’s profile as a viable opposition platform.
Reacting in a strongly worded statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC accused INEC of acting under duress.
“We reject INEC’s interpretation of the Court of Appeal ruling. We knew that INEC was being pressured by a government that has become jittery from the ADC’s rising momentum, even in the face of its relentless assault on all opposition parties,” the statement read.
The party further described INEC’s position as riddled with inconsistencies.
“INEC’s press statement is full of contradictions that fly in the face of both facts and reason. What is clear is that INEC has caved to pressure and has chosen to side with the government against the Nigerian people,” it added.
While reaffirming its resolve to challenge the decision, the ADC disclosed that it is currently reviewing its legal and political options and would make its next line of action known in due course.
The party also called on its members and supporters nationwide to remain calm and steadfast amid the uncertainty.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication with Second Class(Upper Division) at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
