By Frontline Reporters
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is facing mounting criticism following its decision to derecognise key leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), intensifying political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Opposition heavyweights and senior ADC figures on Thursday condemned the move, accusing the electoral body of acting under the influence of the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government. They also called for the immediate removal of INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN).
INEC, however, swiftly dismissed the demand, insisting that its leadership is constitutionally protected and cannot be altered by political pressure.
In a statement issued Thursday night in Abuja by the Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman, Adedayo Oketola, the commission reaffirmed its independence.
“INEC is a creation of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The appointment, tenure and removal of the Chairman and National Commissioners are strictly governed by Section 157 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended),” the statement read.
Court Order Behind Decision
On Wednesday, INEC announced the delisting of prominent ADC figures, including National Chairman David Mark and National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola, citing compliance with a court directive.
INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, explained that the action followed a court order mandating all parties to maintain the status quo pending the resolution of the case at the trial court.
The ADC has been embroiled in a leadership crisis since July 2025, when Mark emerged as head of a new National Working Committee. Disagreements over the role of former chairman Ralph Nwosu triggered internal divisions, with rival factions laying claim to the party’s leadership and initiating multiple court cases.
The prolonged dispute has raised concerns about the party’s readiness for the 2027 elections.
ADC Fires Back
Addressing a press conference in Abuja, Mark accused INEC of undermining democratic freedoms and demanded the resignation of its leadership.
“We no longer have confidence in them. They are incapable of conducting any credible election,” he said.
He maintained that the ADC would continue its activities regardless of INEC’s stance, arguing that there is no legal requirement for the commission’s presence in internal party affairs.
Mark further alleged that INEC’s actions were part of a broader plot to weaken opposition parties and pave the way for a one-party state ahead of 2027.
INEC Defends Neutrality
In response, INEC insisted that its actions were guided strictly by law and judicial pronouncements.
“The Chairman does not hold office at the pleasure of any political party or interest group. Any call for removal outside constitutional provisions is a direct assault on the independence of the electoral umpire,” the commission stated.
It added that compliance with the Court of Appeal ruling was necessary to avoid a repeat of past incidents in Zamfara and Plateau states, where elected officials lost their positions due to disobedience of court orders.
INEC also clarified that recognising the Mark-led faction would amount to contempt of court, as a preservative order remains in place.
One-Party Allegation Rejected
Dismissing allegations of bias, INEC pointed to the recent registration of new political parties as evidence of its commitment to a multi-party system.
The commission stressed that it remains “a neutral regulator, not a participant in political competition,” and will not interfere in internal party disputes.
APC, Others Weigh In
The APC rejected claims of interference, describing the ADC crisis as self-inflicted. Its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, said it was irresponsible for the opposition party to blame external forces for its internal problems.
Meanwhile, the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) urged caution, warning that mismanagement of the crisis could erode public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.
Similarly, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) criticised INEC’s decision, cautioning that perceived bias could further heighten political tensions.
Voter Revalidation Debate
INEC also addressed concerns over its proposed Nationwide Voter Revalidation Exercise, describing it as a routine administrative audit aimed at strengthening the voter register.
According to the commission, the exercise is not a fresh registration but a phased process designed to eliminate inconsistencies such as multiple registrations and deceased voters.
However, IPAC warned that the timing could overstretch political parties already grappling with compliance requirements under the Electoral Act.
Rising Tensions, Security Alert
Tensions escalated on Thursday as security was tightened around INEC headquarters in Abuja. Personnel from the Nigerian Army, Police, Civil Defence Corps and State Security Service were deployed to prevent possible clashes.
The heightened security followed planned protests by ADC supporters and allied groups under the #OccupyINEC campaign.
While some groups rallied in support of INEC’s decision, others mobilised against it, underscoring the deepening divide within the political landscape.
Uncertain Road to 2027
With multiple court cases still pending and political tempers rising, analysts warn that the ADC crisis could significantly impact opposition strength ahead of the 2027 elections.
INEC, however, insists it remains focused on upcoming off-cycle governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states, vowing not to be distracted by what it described as unfounded allegations.
“Our allegiance remains solely to the Constitution and the will of the Nigerian people,” the commission stated.
As the legal and political battles continue, the unfolding crisis is shaping up to be a defining factor in Nigeria’s march toward the 2027 polls.
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2026-04-02
