Political tension has escalated nationwide following the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remove the names of key leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from its official portal, effectively casting uncertainty over the party’s current legal standing.
The electoral body said its action was guided by a ruling of the Court of Appeal in Appeal No. CA/ABJ/145/2026 involving David Mark and Nafiu Bala Gombe, as well as an ongoing suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
INEC explained that after reviewing the March 12, 2026 judgment and subsequent legal processes, it resolved to maintain the status quo ante bellum—the situation before the dispute was filed in court on September 2, 2025. As part of this, the commission removed from its records the National Working Committee led by Mark and suspended engagement with all factions of the party pending final court determination.
The commission also stated it would not recognize or monitor any congresses, conventions, or meetings conducted by any faction of the ADC until the legal dispute is resolved.
Legal Dispute and Leadership Tussle
The crisis stems from a leadership struggle following the resignation of former chairman Ralph Okey Nwosu. Gombe, who served as National Vice Chairman, insists he did not resign and is constitutionally positioned to assume leadership. He subsequently approached the Federal High Court seeking recognition as Acting National Chairman and to restrain Mark’s faction.
Meanwhile, Mark’s group had earlier been recognized by INEC, with their names uploaded to the commission’s portal in September 2025.
Party Chieftains Condemn INEC
Prominent ADC figures have strongly criticized INEC’s decision, describing it as unconstitutional and politically motivated.
Actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo accused the electoral body of bias and misinterpretation of the court ruling, insisting the party has a valid leadership structure and that Gombe had already resigned.
Similarly, activist Aisha Yesufu questioned the neutrality of INEC, alleging attempts to destabilize opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections. She warned that the political climate could intensify, describing the coming election cycle as a defining moment for Nigeria’s democracy.
Former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, also faulted the interpretation of status quo ante bellum, arguing that it clearly implies a return to pre-litigation conditions, not the dissolution of party leadership structures.
Allegations of Political Interference
Former ADC National Chairman, Nwosu, described the development as “the biggest scandal” in party administration, alleging external interference and financial inducements aimed at weakening the opposition.
ADC Deputy National Chairman, Patricia Akwashiki, echoed similar concerns, warning that the move could discourage aspirants and undermine democratic competition.
APC Responds
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has denied any involvement in the crisis. In a statement by its spokesman, Felix Morka, the party dismissed the ADC as disorganized and accused its members of promoting conspiracy theories.
Uncertain Path Forward
With INEC refusing to engage any faction and the courts yet to deliver a final verdict, the ADC faces a critical period as it approaches its planned congresses and national convention. The outcome of the legal battle is expected to shape not only the party’s future but also the broader dynamics of opposition politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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