ADC Chieftain Umeh Slams INEC Over Party Interference

Senator Victor Umeh, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of meddling in his party's internal affairs. Representing Anambra Central, Umeh stated on Channels Television's Politics Today that the party's leadership under David Mark was correct to appeal a Federal High Court ruling on jurisdiction. He argued that if a court lacks jurisdiction over a matter—such as internal party leadership disputes—any subsequent actions are invalid. Umeh expressed confidence that the Court of Appeal would recognize it also lacks jurisdiction in such party affairs. Last week, INEC delisted Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as National Chairman and Secretary, citing a court order to maintain the status quo pending litigation. This follows an ADC warning that INEC's stance could bar the party from fielding candidates in the 2027 elections. The conflict centers on INEC's recognition of party leadership versus internal party decisions. With the 2027 electoral cycle approaching, the outcome of this legal battle will determine ADC's ballot access and structural integrity. Should party members prepare for alternative political platforms or rally behind the current leadership challenge? The broader implication extends to all parties navigating INEC's regulatory authority versus constitutional autonomy over internal affairs.

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/04/06/adc-crisis-david-mark-not-wrong-approaching-court-umeh/