The Struggle for Power and Legitimacy in Nigerian Politics
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has found itself at the center of a political storm, with its leadership under scrutiny from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This development is seen by many as part of a broader pattern where opposition parties in Nigeria have faced internal crises and external pressures that have weakened their ability to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The ADC’s Rise and Challenges
Since 2023, several opposition parties, including the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and Social Democratic Party (SDP), have experienced significant internal conflicts. These issues have left them fragmented and unable to present a united front against the APC.
The ADC, which has been active for two decades, gained momentum when prominent figures like Atiku Abubakar, David Mark, and Rauf Aregbesola joined the party. This influx of leaders elevated the ADC’s profile, making it a major opposition force in Nigeria. The party also managed to bring together presidential candidates from other opposition parties, creating a coalition that could potentially challenge the APC.
However, this growth was abruptly halted when INEC decided to de-recognize the ADC’s leadership led by David Mark. The commission cited a court ruling and ongoing litigation as reasons for its decision, stating that it would not interfere with the legal processes and would not monitor any meetings or conventions held by the ADC until the case was resolved.
The PDP Crisis
The PDP has also been plagued by internal strife. Since Nyesom Wike declared his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the party has struggled to maintain unity. The conflict over the national chairman’s tenure and the organization of a national convention further deepened the divisions within the party.
The situation escalated when the PDP governors wanted to present their own presidential candidate in 2027, leading to a split between those supporting the governors and those aligned with Wike. This factionalism culminated in a court-annulled convention, leaving the party in disarray.
The NNPP’s Internal Conflicts
The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has also faced significant challenges. Rival factions within the party, both at the national and state levels, have engaged in accusations and legal battles. The party’s leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has been accused of sidelining original leadership members, while others have claimed he is hijacking the party.
In Kano, the state chapter is divided between supporters of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and another group led by Alhaji Abdullahi Raji. The crisis has led to parallel meetings and conflicting statements, further confusing party supporters.
The Labour Party’s Leadership Crisis
The Labour Party (LP) has experienced a protracted leadership crisis, marked by conflicting court orders and petitions from rival factions. The party has remained operational through its state chapters, but its national leadership is in dispute.
A Federal High Court in Abuja ordered INEC to recognize the Nenadi Usman-led caretaker committee as the authentic leadership of the LP. However, the Julius Abure-led faction rejected the decision, leading to appeals and continued legal battles.
The ADC’s Current Situation
With the recent INEC decision, the ADC is effectively without a recognized leadership. The party is currently involved in court cases over the legitimacy of its leadership. If the court cases are resolved, the ADC will need to determine who among the opposition leaders will challenge President Bola Tinubu and how to keep other leaders satisfied after the primaries.
The ADC has also faced issues with some state chapters over the composition of the State Executive working committees. These challenges highlight the complexity of maintaining a unified opposition in Nigeria.
Calls for Accountability
The APC has urged the ADC to look inward rather than blame President Tinubu or INEC for their problems. The party’s National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Bashiru, criticized the ADC for focusing on propaganda rather than addressing legal issues.
INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan defended the commission’s actions, stating that they were merely following court orders. He warned the ADC against holding congresses and conventions without INEC’s oversight, emphasizing that the commission’s decisions were based on existing legal directives.
The ADC’s Response
The ADC rejected claims made by INEC, arguing that the commission’s actions were a misinterpretation of the Court of Appeal’s directive. The party emphasized that internal disputes should not hinder democratic functions and reaffirmed its commitment to proceeding in full compliance with the law.
Legal experts have stated that the ADC has the right to pursue its internal affairs by notifying INEC. They argued that the absence of INEC’s participation does not make the process unlawful, as the Electoral Act prohibits courts from granting injunctions that would prevent a party from participating in elections.
Concerns for Democracy
Political scientist Prof. Jibrin Ibrahim warned that the current trend of government agents disrupting political platforms poses a danger to democracy. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that opposition parties can function freely and that legal frameworks are used appropriately.
The Arewa Think Tank has also cautioned against calls for the removal of INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan, describing such demands as unjustified and politically motivated. They emphasized the need for restraint and the importance of preserving democratic institutions.
