The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has removed the names of David Mark, the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), along with members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), from its official portal, citing compliance with a subsisting order of the Court of Appeal.
The development, which signals a deepening leadership crisis within the opposition party, follows a legal dispute initiated by a factional national chairman, Nafiu Bala Gombe. Gombe had approached the court to challenge the legitimacy of the current leadership structure of the party, prompting judicial intervention to preserve the status quo pending the determination of the case.
In a statement issued by the electoral body, INEC explained that its action was guided strictly by the directive of the appellate court, which ordered all parties to maintain the existing situation until the substantive matter is resolved at the Federal High Court. As part of its compliance, the commission stated that it would refrain from recognising or engaging with either faction of the party.
INEC further clarified that it would suspend all forms of monitoring and participation in the internal processes of the ADC, including meetings, congresses, and national conventions organised by both factions. The commission emphasised that this position would remain in force until the court delivers a final judgment on the matter.
The electoral umpire reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining neutrality in intra-party disputes, noting that its actions are consistent with its constitutional mandate to ensure fairness and legality in Nigeria’s electoral process.
Political observers say the decision could have far-reaching implications for the ADC’s organisational stability and its preparedness for future electoral activities, particularly as political realignments begin to gather momentum ahead of upcoming elections.
The leadership tussle within the ADC has drawn attention to the broader issue of internal party democracy in Nigeria, with stakeholders urging a swift legal resolution to prevent further fragmentation within the party.
