Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Abuja, Nigeria — Tensions have escalated between the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) following a public statement by a senior ADC official accusing the electoral body of failing Nigerians even before the commencement of elections. The criticism comes amid an ongoing leadership dispute within the ADC and raises concerns about the neutrality of Nigeria’s election management ahead of the 2027 general polls.
Joemartins Uzodike, a lawyer and prominent ADC chieftain, demanded the resignation of INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan, describing the commission’s recent actions as “disgraceful and mischievous.” The controversy began when INEC withdrew official recognition of the David Mark-led ADC leadership on its portal, a move Uzodike argues misinterpreted a Court of Appeal directive that instructed the party to maintain the status quo while the legal dispute was ongoing. He claims that INEC’s actions have created a leadership vacuum, undermining public confidence in the electoral process.
The leadership crisis within the ADC traces back to 2025 when former Senate President David Mark assumed the role of national chairman. Internal disagreements emerged when a faction led by former deputy chairman Nafiu Bala Gombe challenged Mark’s leadership, resulting in conflicting claims and legal battles over the party’s legitimate leadership. INEC’s derecognition of the Mark faction intensified the dispute, prompting calls for judicial review and further scrutiny of the commission’s decision-making process.
Uzodike warned that INEC’s interpretation of the court order and handling of the ADC dispute could erode trust in Nigeria’s democracy. He argued that the commission appeared to favour certain interests, compromising its constitutionally mandated neutrality. The ADC maintained that Mark has not resigned and reaffirmed that he remains the substantive national chairman, rejecting reports of any voluntary leadership change.
The dispute has drawn commentary from other political actors. Some critics argue that internal missteps within the ADC contributed to the current predicament, suggesting that the party’s own conflicts have complicated its standing with INEC and the courts. Meanwhile, civic organisations such as the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) have expressed concern that mismanagement of internal party disputes by INEC could undermine public confidence in the electoral system.
As legal proceedings continue, the ADC leadership crisis underscores the challenges faced by political parties in consolidating leadership structures and maintaining credibility ahead of national elections. The outcome will likely have significant implications for the party’s organisational stability, public perception, and capacity to contest the 2027 elections effectively.
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