Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Kenneth Okonkwo, a prominent actor and political figure, has publicly criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its Chairman, Prof. Joash O. Amupitan, over the handling of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) leadership dispute. Okonkwo, a member of the ADC’s National Working Committee aligned with the David Mark faction, accused INEC of acting in a partisan manner and undermining Nigeria’s democratic processes. His comments followed INEC’s recent decision to remove recognition of the David Mark-led National Working Committee and suspend acknowledgment of all competing factions of the ADC.
The ADC has been embroiled in a protracted leadership struggle after the resignation of key executives in 2025, creating rival claims to the party’s leadership. One faction, led by former Senate President David Mark, was recognised by INEC initially, while another group, led by Nafiu Bala Gombe, challenged this leadership in court, arguing that party procedures had not been properly followed. A Court of Appeal ruling earlier this year directed all parties to maintain the status quo and ordered a fast-tracked hearing of the substantive suit in the Federal High Court.
Despite the appellate judgment, INEC on April 1, 2026, removed the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its official party records, stating that the commission would not engage with or monitor any activities of competing factions until final judicial clarity was provided. INEC maintained that its actions were intended to comply with the court order by remaining neutral and avoiding actions that could prejudice the ongoing legal process.
Okonkwo argued that the commission’s decision contradicted the earlier recognition of the David Mark-led leadership by former INEC chairman Prof. Yakubu Mahmood and appeared politically motivated. He claimed that the move effectively aligned INEC with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), undermining the independence of the electoral agency and threatening the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy, particularly in the run-up to the 2027 general elections.
The ADC, through its National Publicity Secretary, rejected INEC’s interpretation of the appellate court ruling, alleging that the electoral body acted under pressure from the federal government. The party contended that the commission’s actions could erode public trust in democratic institutions and announced that it would explore all legal options to protect its recognised leadership.
Legal commentators have highlighted the complexity of INEC’s role in regulating internal party disputes, noting that the commission must navigate judicial directives while maintaining neutrality. The controversy has sparked public debate about the independence of electoral institutions, the influence of political parties on regulatory bodies, and the safeguards needed to ensure credible elections.
As the Federal High Court continues to hear the substantive case, the outcome will determine which faction of the ADC will hold official recognition and how the party will participate in upcoming elections. Meanwhile, Okonkwo’s criticisms reflect broader concerns about political interference and the importance of impartiality in the administration of elections in Nigeria.
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