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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has warned that its ability to participate in the 2027 general elections could be jeopardised by recent actions of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC argued that INEC’s stance is making it difficult to meet statutory requirements, including filing notices and submitting documents ahead of the May 10 deadline stipulated by the electoral body.
The party said the Commission’s refusal to receive its official correspondence is creating obstacles that may prevent it from nominating candidates for the polls.
The party maintained that past interactions contradict INEC’s current position, noting that the Commission had previously engaged with and acknowledged its leadership.
It added that it possesses documentary evidence, including certified INEC records, attendance registers, monitoring reports, and portions of the Commission’s sworn affidavit, which it said support its claims.
According to the ADC, INEC was duly informed of its National Executive Committee meeting held on July 29, 2025, and officials of the Commission attended in that capacity.
It further stated that INEC subsequently updated its records to reflect a leadership structure headed by David Mark as National Chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary.
The party described it as inconsistent for INEC to now decline all correspondence from it pending the outcome of a case before the Federal High Court, despite what it called verifiable records already in the Commission’s possession.
It stressed that the Electoral Act imposes strict timelines on political parties, including a 21-day notice requirement, while INEC itself fixed May 10 as the deadline for relevant submissions. By refusing to accept its filings within this period, the ADC said the Commission is effectively placing it in a position where compliance becomes impossible.
The party warned that unless a court decision on its leadership dispute is delivered before the deadline, it risks being unable to field candidates, a situation it described as “artificial non-compliance” that could later be used to exclude it from the electoral process.
It called on INEC to reverse its position, resume receiving its communications, and uphold fairness in line with its constitutional responsibilities. The ADC also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant against actions it believes could undermine democratic processes.
The dispute follows INEC’s withdrawal of recognition for the party’s National Working Committee led by Mark.
The Commission said its decision was guided by an existing court judgement and its mandate to regulate political parties, adding that neutrality and adherence to the rule of law remain central to its actions.
INEC explained that, in light of conflicting claims and ongoing litigation within the party, it has reverted to a status quo position pending a final judicial determination, a move that has left the party without formal recognition and deepened internal uncertainty.
However, the ADC rejected the decision, accusing the Commission of bias and undue interference in its internal affairs, while warning that the move could weaken internal party democracy.
