Tensions ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections escalated on Tuesday as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) came under fire from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and allies of Peter Obi over alleged attempts to undermine opposition participation.
INEC declined to comment on accusations by the ADC that it is creating administrative hurdles to prevent the party from fielding candidates. The commission also remained silent on a 72-hour ultimatum issued by ADC youths demanding recognition of the party’s leadership or face nationwide protests.
ADC Alleges “Administrative Landmines”
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC accused INEC of deliberately blocking its compliance with electoral timelines by refusing to accept official correspondence due to an ongoing court case.
According to the party, this stance contradicts provisions of the Electoral Act, which mandates strict deadlines for political parties, including a 21-day notice period for key activities.
The ADC argued that INEC had previously monitored, documented, and formally recognised the outcome of its July 29, 2025 National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, which produced a leadership led by David Mark as National Chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary.
The party maintained that INEC’s refusal to engage with it now creates an “impossible position,” potentially leading to its exclusion from the 2027 elections.
Obi Camp Alleges Plot to Block Candidacy
Separately, the media office of Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, alleged a coordinated effort by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to prevent him from appearing on the 2027 ballot.
The statement claimed that internal crises within the Labour Party were being deliberately fueled to weaken Obi’s political standing, alongside what it described as legislative and institutional pressures targeting opposition figures.
APC Denies Involvement
Responding to the allegations, Abimbola Tooki, Special Adviser to APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, dismissed the claims as baseless.
He argued that Obi’s challenges stem from internal party issues, stating that all political parties are subject to the same INEC regulations.
ADC Youths Issue Ultimatum
Meanwhile, the ADC youth wing has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to INEC to restore the party’s leadership on its official portal. Speaking in Abuja, Youth Leader Balarabe Rufa’i accused the commission of overstepping its constitutional role and interfering in party affairs.
The group warned that failure to comply would trigger coordinated nationwide protests across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Civil Society Raises Concerns
Adding to the growing criticism, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) cautioned that INEC’s actions could undermine Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.
Executive Director Auwal Rafsanjani warned that the situation risks eroding public trust in the electoral process and may heighten political tensions ahead of the 2027 elections.
He urged INEC to act transparently and ensure a level playing field for all political parties.
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