The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has alleged that its derecognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is part of a broader move to prevent the party from participating in the 2027 general elections.
In a statement, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said recent actions by the commission, including refusal to accept correspondence from the party, could undermine its ability to meet key electoral requirements.
“We are compelled to raise serious concerns about a developing situation that appears designed to prevent the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from fielding candidates in the upcoming elections.”
The party has been entangled in a leadership crisis since July 2025, following the emergence of an opposition coalition that assumed control of its structure, a move challenged by a faction led by Nafiu Bala.
The situation escalated after INEC announced it would no longer recognise either faction, including the leadership of former Senate President David Mark, citing a Court of Appeal judgment and a pending case before the Federal High Court.
“INEC received formal notice of the July 29, 2025, National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the ADC. It deployed officials to monitor that meeting… and subsequently uploaded the names of the new leadership.”
Abdullahi argued that the commission’s refusal to engage the party contradicts provisions of the Electoral Act, particularly timelines for primaries and submission of candidates.
“The Electoral Act imposes strict timelines… However, by refusing to receive communication from the ADC within this same period, the Commission is effectively preventing the party from complying with the law.”
He warned that the development places the party in a difficult position ahead of the elections.
“In simple terms, INEC is effectively threatening that unless the courts deliver judgment on the ADC leadership issue by May 10, it will prevent the ADC from producing candidates.”
The ADC described the situation as a “dangerous contradiction” and called on INEC to immediately reverse its stance and ensure a level playing field for all political parties ahead of the 2027 polls.
Credit: The Sun