INEC undermining democracy — ADC

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to impose a one-party state ahead of the 2027 general elections, alleging that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is being used to destabilise opposition parties.

Addressing journalists on Thursday at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, ADC National Chairman, David Mark, condemned INEC’s recent decision to delist him, National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola, and other officials from the party’s records. He described the action as unlawful, biased, and part of a wider plot to weaken the party.

INEC had announced on Wednesday that it was acting in compliance with a court order directing all parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum pending the outcome of a leadership dispute within the ADC.

Background to the Crisis

The ADC has been embroiled in a leadership tussle since 2025 following the emergence of a new National Working Committee (NWC) led by Mark. The crisis stems from disagreements surrounding the tenure of former National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, whose term ended in August 2022 but who later played a role in the 2025 transition—sparking resistance from other factions.

Rival groups subsequently laid claim to the party’s leadership, leading to multiple court cases and deepening internal instability ahead of the 2027 polls.

Mark: ‘Plot to Make Tinubu Sole 2027 Option’

Mark accused the APC-led federal government of orchestrating a sustained attack on democratic freedoms and opposition movements. He alleged that the ultimate plan is to leave President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the only viable candidate in the 2027 election, despite worsening economic hardship and insecurity.

According to him, “The agenda is clear: by 2027, President Bola Tinubu must emerge as the only option left for Nigerians. The suffering, killings, poverty, and insecurity we see today are consequences of the government’s failure. They know Nigerians will vote them out, so they’re desperate to retain power at all costs.”

ADC’s Position on the Court Order

Mark explained that the ADC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) held a meeting on July 29, 2025—monitored by INEC—during which the former NWC was dissolved and a caretaker committee installed. INEC subsequently uploaded the new names on its website on September 9, 2025.

However, a former Deputy National Chairman, Nafiu Bala, who had resigned months earlier, went to court on September 2, seeking to be recognised as party chairman. Mark maintained that INEC was fully aware of both Bala’s resignation and the new leadership before the case began.

He argued that INEC’s interpretation of the court’s directive to maintain the status quo is flawed and biased.

“INEC has invented a status quo that never existed,” he said. “At no time was the ADC without leadership. INEC cannot determine party leadership. Its actions amount to contempt of court and a dangerous attempt to undermine democracy.”

Claims of Partisanship and Interference

Mark insisted that INEC’s conduct proves it has become partisan, warning that the commission is jeopardising the upcoming Osun and Ekiti elections as well as the ADC’s congresses scheduled between April 9 and 14, 2026.

“We hold INEC under Professor Amupitan directly responsible for any consequences that arise from this reckless path,” he declared.

Demand for INEC Chairman’s Removal

The ADC chairman called for the immediate resignation or dismissal of INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, along with all National Commissioners, saying the commission has lost credibility.

“We no longer have confidence in them. They are incapable of conducting any credible election,” Mark said.

He concluded that the ADC would proceed with its planned activities with or without INEC’s monitoring, insisting that no law mandates the commission’s presence before internal party processes can hold.