ADC defies INEC, insists on holding congresses, convention amid leadership crisis

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared it will proceed with its planned congresses and national convention despite the stance of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the party’s leadership dispute.

Speaking on Arise TV on Thursday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the ADC had already fulfilled the legal requirement by notifying INEC ahead of the scheduled activities.

“We have given INEC 21 days’ notice. They have accepted the notice. So whether they come or not, we’ll continue with our congresses. And we will go on with our convention,” he stated.

INEC had earlier announced it would no longer recognise factions of the party led by David Mark and Nafiu Bala, following its review of a Court of Appeal judgment on the ongoing leadership tussle.

Reacting, Abdullahi alleged that the commission’s position was influenced by pressure from the federal government, claiming there were moves to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He further criticised INEC’s proposed voter revalidation exercise, describing it as poorly timed and capable of causing confusion within the electoral system.

“Getting people to register to vote is difficult enough. Asking every single person that has a voter card to go back to their polling units to revalidate those cards a few months to the election is just plain anarchy,” he said.

Abdullahi also accused the electoral body of creating unnecessary tension, warning that recent developments raise concerns about the state of Nigeria’s democracy.

“When we keep saying that there’s a plan to make President Bola Ahmed Tinubu the only candidate on the ballot in 2027, people think we’re being hysteric,” he added.

The ADC spokesperson urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and pay close attention to unfolding political developments as the country moves closer to the next general elections.