• Morka dismisses interference claims, blames opposition’s ‘leadership failure’
• Cites legal missteps, insists INEC acted within law
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly rejected allegations of meddling in the internal affairs of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the opposition party’s leadership crisis as a product of “self-inflicted chaos” driven by incompetence and poor internal management.
APC National Publicity Secretary, Barrister Felix Morka, made the assertion during an appearance on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM in Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State, on Tuesday.
Morka’s remarks come amid growing tensions within the ADC, following claims by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, that external political forces were orchestrating a plot to destabilise the party.
Dismissing the allegation, Morka said the crisis within the ADC has no connection whatsoever with the ruling party or the presidency.
“What we are witnessing is nothing short of coordinated incompetence and a failure to conduct party affairs in line with democratic expectations. There is absolutely nothing linking the APC to the ADC crisis,” he said.
Blame Game or Leadership Failure?
The APC spokesman accused opposition figures of resorting to blame-shifting whenever internal contradictions arise, describing such tendencies as politically convenient but misleading.
According to him, Abdullahi’s claims of democratic suppression reflect a broader pattern among opposition parties to externalise responsibility instead of addressing structural weaknesses within their ranks.
“This is not about suppression; it is about failure of leadership within the ADC. No amount of narrative twisting can change that reality,” Morka added.
Legal Dispute at the Core
Providing insight into the root of the crisis, Morka traced the development to a legal dispute involving ADC member and former Deputy National Chairman, Nafiu Bala.
He explained that the controversy began on September 2, 2025, when Bala approached the Federal High Court seeking recognition as the party’s National Chairman following a leadership vacuum.
Morka argued that the situation was worsened by procedural errors on the part of the ADC, particularly its handling of appellate processes.
“The ADC filed an interlocutory appeal without obtaining the required leave of court. The Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal and ordered parties to maintain the status quo. What we are seeing now is the direct consequence of those legal missteps,” he stated.
INEC Acted Within the Law
The APC spokesman also defended the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), insisting that the electoral body acted strictly in compliance with court directives.
He cautioned against attempts to politicise INEC’s actions, warning that such narratives could erode public confidence in democratic institutions.
“INEC acted based on a valid court judgment, not under any influence from the APC or the government. Suggesting otherwise is unfounded and undermines institutional integrity,” he said.
Demand for Evidence
Morka further challenged ADC officials to substantiate their claims of interference, stressing that allegations without proof should not be taken seriously.
“When you make an allegation, you must provide evidence. The burden of proof lies with the accuser, not the accused,” he argued.
A Wider Opposition Problem
Expanding his critique, Morka said the ADC crisis reflects a recurring trend among opposition parties in Nigeria, where internal conflicts are often blamed on external forces rather than resolved through institutional mechanisms.
He warned that such practices weaken the opposition’s credibility and raise questions about its capacity to govern.
“If a party cannot manage its internal affairs within the framework of the law, it raises serious concerns about its ability to lead a complex nation like Nigeria,” he noted.
Call for Responsibility
Morka concluded by urging political actors to exercise restraint and responsibility in public discourse, particularly when their statements could affect public trust in key democratic institutions.
He emphasised that adherence to due process and respect for the rule of law remain essential for strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
