Supporters of a faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Wednesday marched to the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja, demanding the recognition of Nafiu Bala as the party’s National Chairman.
The protesters, led by Bala, hinged their demand on a March 12, 2026 judgment of the Court of Appeal in Abuja, which they insist affirmed his leadership and must be implemented by the electoral umpire.
The demonstration is the latest development in the party’s deepening leadership crisis, with rival groups battling for control of the ADC’s national structure. Protesters carried placards reading “Obey the Court,” “INEC Must Recognise Nafiu Bala,” and “No to Impunity,” as they chanted solidarity songs. Security operatives, however, blocked them from entering the INEC premises.
Addressing journalists, the Special Adviser on Strategy to the ADC chairman, Abimiku Monday, accused INEC of ignoring a valid court judgment. He said the party had formally written the commission on March 15 and again on March 27, warning that continued refusal to comply could amount to contempt of court.
He said the commission’s alleged disregard for judicial orders undermines public trust and threatens democratic stability. “When an institution responsible for elections ignores a superior court, it sends a dangerous message that the rule of law is optional,” he added.
Another co-convener, Abdullahi Ahmed, said the protest aimed to defend democratic values, while Basah Mohammed of the League of Civil Society Groups emphasised that the action was non-partisan and intended to protect institutional credibility.
Mohammed said INEC must maintain neutrality and resist political interference. He also urged the National Assembly to intensify oversight to ensure public institutions act within constitutional limits.
Activist Danielson Momoh warned that continued disobedience to court orders could create electoral complications, while co-convener Igwe Ude-Umanta argued that the Court of Appeal’s directive to maintain the status quo ante bellum clearly favours Bala’s leadership.
According to him, “The judgment refers to the state of affairs before hostilities resumed. That means the David Mark-led faction should not be recognised. INEC’s continued engagement with them is unacceptable.”
Responding to the protesters, INEC’s Assistant Director of Security, Mohammed Hamma, appealed for calm, explaining that the chairman and national commissioners were away in Lagos for an official workshop. He assured the group that their petition would be forwarded to the appropriate authorities.
“We will acknowledge receipt and ensure that your document reaches the chairman,” he said.
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