The Nafiu Bala Gombe-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has faulted the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for what it described as a “premature and biased” recognition of the David Mark-led faction of the party. The ADC stressed that the recognition came despite a pending court case challenging that faction’s legitimacy.
In a communiqué issued after an emergency joint meeting of the NWC and the National Executive Committee (NEC) on Saturday in Abuja, the party said INEC’s action undermines its leadership and threatens Nigeria’s democratic foundation.
ADC National Chairman Nafiu Bala Gombe argued that INEC’s decision to upload the Mark leadership on its portal “raises significant questions about the commission’s neutrality and credibility.”
The party urged members to remain calm and united. It also vowed not to allow “idle politicians” to hijack its platform for selfish ambitions.
According to the communiqué, the party met in response to INEC’s “hasty recognition” of the Mark faction. It warned that this step threatens the party’s legitimacy and weakens the commission’s impartiality.
The statement added:
INEC should maintain neutrality as the custodian of electoral integrity.
Aligning with politicians who destabilized other parties raises suspicion of bias.
Desperate politicians are using manipulative tactics to exploit the ADC.
The ADC said such divisive tactics are not new, recalling similar strategies during President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration. According to the party, those actions deepened divisions, weakened institutions, and set Nigeria back by decades.
It added that political opportunism has fueled today’s economic challenges, insecurity, and entrenched corruption, further eroding public trust in governance.
Legal Action Against INEC
The ADC confirmed it has filed a suit at the Federal High Court against INEC and what it called “desperate politicians.” It seeks to overturn the recognition of Mark’s faction and restore its mandate.
The party urged INEC to “exercise maturity and restraint” by awaiting the court’s verdict before making further pronouncements on ADC’s leadership.
ADC Reassures Members
In its closing remarks, the party assured members of its commitment to peace and stability. It emphasized that it will not serve as a refuge for opportunistic politicians.
“We urge our members to remain calm, united, and resolute. Our unity is our strength, and together we will safeguard our mandate,” the communiqué said.
The party also expressed gratitude to its members for their loyalty, urging them to stay steadfast as it navigates current challenges.
