..Electoral body suspends dealings over leadership tussle
…ADC alleges APC interference as crisis deepens ahead of 2027 polls
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has ordered the removal of the names of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by David Mark from its official portal, triggering fresh turmoil within the opposition party.
The commission also delisted Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary and announced the suspension of all engagements with factions within the party pending the determination of an ongoing court case.
INEC, in a statement issued by its National Commissioner, Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, said the decision followed conflicting legal claims over the party’s leadership and a ruling of the Court of Appeal directing parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum.
The commission stressed that it would not recognise any faction, including that led by Nafiu Bala Gombe, until the Federal High Court delivers a final judgment on the dispute.
“INEC will refrain from monitoring conventions or congresses by any of the contending factions,” the statement added.
ADC Rejects Decision
Reacting, the ADC rejected INEC’s interpretation of the court ruling, accusing the electoral body of yielding to political pressure from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party described INEC’s action as “contradictory” and alleged a plot to weaken the opposition ahead of the 2027 general election.
“INEC has caved to pressure and chosen to side with the government against the Nigerian people,” the party stated, adding that it is reviewing legal options.
Crisis Rooted in Leadership Dispute
The crisis stems from the resignation of former ADC National Chairman, Ralph Okey Nwosu, and other executives in July 2025, which paved the way for the emergence of a new leadership under Mark.
However, Gombe challenged the process, insisting he never resigned and should assume leadership in line with the party’s constitution. He subsequently approached the Federal High Court seeking recognition as acting chairman.
While Mark’s camp filed an interlocutory appeal, the Court of Appeal, in its March 2026 ruling, dismissed the appeal and ordered all parties to maintain the existing situation pending resolution of the substantive suit.
Political Undercurrents, Allegations
The development comes amid heightened political tension, with a former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, warning that internal wrangling could prevent ADC from fielding a valid presidential candidate in 2027.
Meanwhile, a member of the party’s NWC, Kenneth Okonkwo, accused the APC of attempting to destabilise the party to weaken opposition ahead of the elections.
The ADC also alleged plans to sponsor protests against the Mark-led leadership, claiming the move is part of efforts to derail its coalition momentum.
Coalition Stakes, Rising Tensions
The ADC has recently emerged as a rallying platform for opposition figures, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Nasir El-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi.
However, the latest development threatens to derail the coalition’s momentum just months before the 2027 election cycle intensifies.
Concerns Over Electoral Integrity
Civil society voices have also weighed in, warning that INEC’s action could erode confidence in democratic institutions if not handled transparently.
The ADC has further called on the commission to clarify reports of a planned voter revalidation exercise, warning that such a move close to elections could disenfranchise millions of Nigerians.
