ADC claims INEC derecognition aimed at blocking 2027 participation

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has alleged that its derecognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is part of a broader effort to prevent the party from participating in the 2027 general election.

In a statement issued on Monday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the commission’s recent actions — including its refusal to accept correspondence from the party — could hinder its ability to meet key electoral requirements.

“We are compelled to raise serious concerns about a developing situation that appears designed to prevent the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from fielding candidates in the upcoming elections,” Abdullahi said.

The party has been embroiled in a leadership crisis since July 2025, when an opposition coalition assumed control of its structure. The dispute centres on claims by a former deputy national chairman, Nafiu Bala, who challenged the emergence of former Senate President David Mark as national chairman.

The situation escalated last Wednesday after INEC announced it would no longer recognise either the Mark-led leadership or the Bala faction, citing a March 12 Court of Appeal judgment. The commission also said it would refrain from engaging with both groups pending the outcome of a case before the Federal High Court.

However, Abdullahi argued that INEC’s current position contradicts its earlier actions and official records.

“INEC received formal notice of the July 29, 2025, National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the ADC. It deployed officials to monitor that meeting… and subsequently uploaded the names of the new leadership,” he said.

He added that the commission’s refusal to accept party correspondence now conflicts with provisions of the Electoral Act, which set timelines for party primaries and submission of candidates.

“The Electoral Act imposes strict timelines… However, by refusing to receive communication from the ADC within this same period, the Commission is effectively preventing the party from complying with the law,” Abdullahi stated.

He warned that the development places the party in an “impossible position,” adding: “In simple terms, INEC is effectively threatening that unless the courts deliver judgment on the ADC leadership issue by May 10, it will prevent the ADC from producing candidates.”

The ADC spokesperson described the situation as a “dangerous contradiction” and urged the commission to reverse its stance.

Abdullahi called on INEC to “immediately” resume accepting correspondence from the party and ensure a level playing field for all political parties ahead of the 2027 elections.