Political tension has intensified across Nigeria following the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC to remove the names of leaders of the African Democratic Congress ADC from its official portal, a move that has sparked widespread reactions within the party.
INEC had explained that its decision was based on compliance with a Court of Appeal ruling in the dispute involving David Mark and Nafiu Bala Gombe, and the need to maintain status quo pending the determination of a substantive suit before the Federal High Court.
The commission stated that it would refrain from recognising any faction or monitoring party activities until the court reaches a final decision.
Reacting on the sidelines of the party’s press conference in Abuja, actor turned politician Kenneth Okonkwo described the decision as “absurd” and questioned INEC’s interpretation of the court ruling.
He argued that the directive to maintain status quo ante bellum should imply the continuation of the leadership of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola, rather than their removal.
Human rights activist Aisha Yesufu also criticised the electoral body, alleging bias and questioning why the ADC had become the focus of such actions.
“We are not intimidated. We are not afraid… Nigeria is at war going into 2027, it’s going to be a war, and we are fighting for our lives and for the soul of this nation,” she said.
Former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, accused INEC of misinterpreting the court’s directive, insisting that the principle of status quo ante bellum requires a return to the pre dispute leadership structure.
Similarly, former ADC National Chairman, Ralph Okey Nwosu, described the development as a major scandal in party administration, alleging external interference and insisting that party processes would continue despite INEC’s stance.
ADC Deputy National Chairman, Patricia Akwashiki, also warned that the situation could discourage aspirants, alleging that the actions were aimed at weakening opposition ahead of the 2027 elections.
Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress APC has denied any involvement in the crisis, with its spokesperson Felix Morka describing the ADC as disorganised and dismissing allegations of interference.
As the dispute continues, INEC maintains that its actions are guided by legal compliance and the need to preserve the integrity of ongoing judicial proceedings.
