The African Democratic Congress Challenges INEC’s Role in Party Leadership
In an exclusive interview with selected journalists, Bolaji Abdullahi, the National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has raised serious concerns about the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) actions regarding the party’s leadership. According to Abdullahi, the delisting of the ADC’s National Chairman, David Mark, and National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, is part of a broader strategy to weaken the opposition and limit electoral choices for Nigerians.
Understanding the Legal Dispute
When asked about the claim that INEC does not have the power to remove party leadership, Abdullahi emphasized that political parties operate as voluntary associations whose internal affairs cannot be dictated by external bodies. He stated that INEC’s role is supervisory, not administrative, and that the commission does not have the authority to control how political parties manage their internal matters.
He further argued that the recent actions taken by INEC are unconstitutional and inconsistent with established legal precedents. “If you are not a member of our family, you cannot come and remove the head of that family,” he said.
Clarifying the Court Ruling
Abdullahi also addressed the interpretation of the Court of Appeal ruling related to the “status quo ante bellum.” He clarified that the ruling was meant to restore the condition of the party before the conflict initiated by Nafiu Bala Gombe. According to him, David Mark was already recognized as the chairman following a NEC meeting on July 29, which INEC monitored and acknowledged.
He criticized INEC’s interpretation of the ruling, arguing that it is fraudulent and self-serving. “How does maintaining the status quo suddenly translate into removing an existing leadership and leaving the party without direction?” he questioned.
Addressing Claims of Forgery
Regarding Nafiu Bala’s claim that he did not resign, Abdullahi dismissed it as baseless. He pointed out that Bala was never the chairman of the ADC and was one of six deputy national chairmen. A resolution was passed on July 25 requiring all members of the executive to resign, which Bala duly did.
Abdullahi challenged Bala to provide evidence of any formal complaint to law enforcement authorities regarding forged documents. He noted that there is ample evidence showing Bala resigned and that his linguistic patterns align with the resignation letter. Even if his signature were forged, the NEC meeting dissolved the entire executive and brought in a caretaker committee led by David Mark, which INEC monitored and documented.
Political Interference and Conspiracy
Abdullahi accused some individuals of making false claims to distract from the real issues. He mentioned Leke Abejide and Dumebi Kachikwu, who were expelled from the party for anti-party activities. He suggested that these individuals are now trying to influence the party’s internal affairs, which he described as a distraction.
He also claimed there is a broader political conspiracy to weaken opposition parties, aiming to leave only one viable candidate ahead of the 2027 elections. “This is not accidental; it is coordinated and dangerous for the future of democracy in Nigeria,” he warned.
Legal Actions and Future Plans
Abdullahi confirmed that the ADC approached the Court of Appeal, citing Supreme Court rulings that limit jurisdiction over internal party affairs. The Court of Appeal acknowledged this and ordered the maintenance of the status quo while the matter is resolved.
He assured that the ADC will proceed with its planned national convention, having complied fully with the law and notified INEC within the stipulated timeframe. “There is nothing unlawful about proceeding with our convention,” he said.
Commitment to Democracy
Abdullahi expressed his belief that democracy thrives when there is a strong and credible opposition. He emphasized that the ADC is committed to engaging, organizing, and ensuring that the voices of Nigerians are not silenced.
Impact on Nigerian Democracy
The crisis, according to Abdullahi, is a defining moment for Nigeria’s democracy. He argued that what is at stake is not just the ADC but the future of democratic participation in the country. “We believe in the courts and in judges who understand their duty to the country,” he said.
Criticism of Government Actions
Abdullahi also criticized the government’s handling of national crises and the suppression of opposition parties. He highlighted the killings in Benue and Kaduna, questioning the quality of governance. “Is that the kind of governance we want to continue?” he asked.
He concluded by stating that the ADC will not be intimidated and will continue to participate fully in the democratic process regardless of the challenges.
