ADC Defies INEC, Plans Congresses Amid Leadership Crisis
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has announced it will proceed with its scheduled ward, local government, state, and national congresses from April 7 to 14, despite warnings from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The party maintains it has formally notified INEC of its activities and accuses the commission of illegal interference in its internal affairs.
The crisis stems from a leadership dispute. INEC suspended recognition of all ADC factions following a Court of Appeal ruling that ordered all parties to maintain the status quo in a suit filed by former National Vice Chairman Nafiu Bala. Bala is challenging National Chairman David Mark’s emergence and seeks to be declared chairman per the party’s constitution. The Mark faction argues INEC misinterpreted the court order and should seek judicial clarification instead of freezing recognition.
INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan has warned that proceeding without commission supervision amid the court process could attract “grave legal consequences,” citing precedents where non-compliance with court orders led to the nullification of electoral victories. The ADC’s National Chairman, David Mark, has called for the resignation of the INEC leadership and alleged the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is fuelling the crisis to destabilise the party.
The scheduled timetable: aspirant screening on April 7, appeals on April 8, polling unit/ward/LGA congresses on April 9, appeals on April 10, state congresses on April 11, appeals on April 12, and the national convention on April 14. INEC states it will not recognise any outcome until the court determines the substantive suit.
With the 2027 election cycle approaching, this clash raises questions about political party internal democracy, the independence of electoral management, and the potential for court rulings to invalidate party primaries. If you are a party member, delegate, or political aspirant, do you attend these congresses, risking future electoral disqualification, or abide by INEC’s stance and await judicial clarity?