INEC’s Stance on ADC Leadership Crisis
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared that it will not recognize the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), including former Senator President David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola, as national chairman and national secretary, along with other members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC). This decision comes amid an ongoing legal dispute over the party’s leadership structure. The electoral commission has also stated it will not monitor the ADC’s upcoming national convention scheduled for April 14, maintaining the status quo in the leadership crisis.
The National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee of INEC, Mohammed Haruna, who shared this information in a statement, emphasized that the commission has rejected requests to allow Nafiu Bala Gombe to take over the affairs of the party while the court case is pending. He added that INEC will not engage with any of the contending groups regarding the party’s affairs and will not monitor any meetings, congresses, or conventions convened by any faction of the ADC until the case is resolved.
The statement from INEC further clarified that in line with the directive to maintain the status quo, the names of the current NWC members led by Senator David Mark will be removed from its portal. The commission reaffirmed its commitment to neutrality, impartiality, and strict compliance with court orders, urging political parties and stakeholders to act responsibly to avoid disrupting preparations for the 2027 General Elections.
Haruna explained that the decision was made after a careful review of the Appeal Court ruling delivered on March 12, 2026, and the pending suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja. The commission resolved to maintain the status quo ante bellum, in compliance with the judgment of the Court of Appeal and in deference to the ongoing proceedings before the Federal High Court.
Legal Background and Party Dispute
INEC revealed that it had received separate letters dated March 16, 2026, from two law firms representing different interests in the party. One letter, written by Suleiman Usman SAN and Co. on behalf of concerned stakeholders, cautioned the commission against recognizing Nafiu Bala Gombe as Acting National Chairman while the matter remains before the court. In contrast, Summit Law Chambers, representing Gombe, urged INEC to enforce the Court of Appeal’s judgment by ceasing recognition of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as National Chairman and National Secretary of the party.
The commission cited the appellate court’s directive, noting that the Court of Appeal dismissed the interlocutory appeal filed by Senator David Mark and directed that the parties must maintain the status quo ante bellum pending the determination of the substantive suit. The court also ordered an accelerated hearing of the case in view of the Electoral Timetable and warned parties against taking any steps that could prejudice the matter.
ADC’s Response and Internal Challenges
The ADC has rejected INEC’s interpretation of the Court of Appeal ruling, alleging that the electoral body acted under pressure from a government that is “scared of the opposition momentum despite its efforts to destroy all opposition parties and foist a one-party rule on Nigeria.” In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC described INEC’s position as contradictory and inconsistent with facts, insisting that it would publicly clarify these issues while warning that the commission has effectively sided with the government against Nigerians.
The party said it is currently reviewing its options and will announce its next steps soon, urging its members and the public to remain steadfast as events unfold.
Expert Reactions and Implications
A former director at INEC, Mr Nick Dazang, commented that the commission has an established principle, going back to more than ten years, that as the chief driver of the electoral process, it will obey court orders. He emphasized the importance of promoting a law-governing process and avert anarchy.
Professor Muhammad Sani Bello, an ADC chieftain in Kaduna, stated that the party communicated its convention dates weeks ago without any objection from INEC. He argued that INEC cannot suddenly claim it will not recognize any communication from the party’s leadership.
Similarly, Barrister Jerry Irimiya Kantiok of the ADC criticized INEC’s decision, stating that the commission cannot undo what its predecessor had done under the pretense of a court order granting an accelerated hearing.
Broader Political Implications
Political analyst Jide Ojo warned that the leadership crisis in the ADC and the resulting decision by INEC could undermine the party’s chances in the 2027 general elections. He highlighted the risks of prolonged litigation and the potential for aspirants to explore alternative political platforms.
Professor Sylvester Odion Akhaine suggested that the administration in power may be behind the crisis to secure a re-election, but he emphasized that such actions should be on a fair, competitive ground.
Human rights lawyer Professor Chidi Anselm Odinkalu raised concerns about the possibility of an uncontested election in 2027, drawing parallels to past attempts by military rulers to manipulate the electoral process.
