ADC also expressed concern over growing threats to Nigeria’s democracy, warning against attempts to limit political competition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
By Kehinde Okeowo
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has challenged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), insisting it will proceed with its planned congresses and national convention despite the electoral body’s decision not to recognise its leadership.
This was disclosed on Thursday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, during an appearance on the Arise Television programme, Morning Show.
On Wednesday, INEC—claiming compliance with a court order—removed the names of the ADC National Chairman, David Mark, and the National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, from its official portal.
“Since the names of the current National Working Committee members led by Senator David Mark were uploaded on 9th September 2025 by INEC (seven days after the suit was instituted), the names will be removed from the INEC portal pursuant to the order of the Court of Appeal to maintain the status quo ante bellum until the matter is decided by the trial court,” the commission stated.
The electoral body further clarified that it would not recognise Nafiu Bala Gombe, who is currently seeking to be declared national chairman through the courts.
Reacting to the decision, Abdullahi accused the commission of plotting to ensure that Nigerians have “no option or no choice” in 2027, adding that the country is no longer in a military era.
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He noted that the ADC had already served INEC the required 21-day notice for its activities and that the electoral umpire had acknowledged receipt.
Abdullahi maintained that the ADC would not halt its internal processes regardless of INEC’s position, stressing that the party remains committed to holding its congresses and convention as scheduled.
The spokesman expressed concern over what he described as growing threats to Nigeria’s democracy, warning against attempts to stifle political competition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during the interview, Abdullahi said: “If we were in a military regime, we could understand it. We find ourselves in a situation where everything is being done to ensure that the 2027 election is a fait accompli, and that Nigerians will be left with no option or no choice. We have seen how this has ended in the past.
“So, we are saying that we will go ahead with our congresses. We have given INEC 21 days’ notice. They have accepted the notice. Whether they attend or not, we will continue with our congresses; we will continue with our convention.
“We are all Nigerians. We can see what is going on. We can see our democracy unravelling before our very eyes.”
