The faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by David Mark has strongly criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its decision to withdraw recognition of the party’s leadership.
At a press briefing held on Thursday, the party called for the resignation of INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, accusing the electoral body of bias and unlawful interference.
The ADC further alleged that there is a deliberate scheme to weaken opposition parties and position President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the sole viable candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Prominent political figures present at the conference included Peter Obi, Rauf Aregbesola, Atiku Abubakar, and Rotimi Amaechi, among others.
Full Rewritten Speech by David Mark
Speaking on behalf of the ADC and supporters of democracy, David Mark said Nigeria’s democratic journey since 1999 was expected to have matured after over two decades. However, he argued that recent developments suggest otherwise.
According to him, democracy thrives on fundamental freedoms—such as the right to choose, participate, and associate. He claimed these freedoms have been steadily undermined over the past three years, describing it as a calculated attempt to eliminate political competition ahead of 2027.
He linked Nigeria’s worsening economic hardship and insecurity to governance failures, asserting that the current administration fears electoral defeat and is therefore resorting to desperate tactics to retain power.
Formation of the Opposition Coalition
Mark explained that the ADC coalition emerged from a shared determination among opposition leaders to defend democracy. He noted that the coalition followed due process in adopting the ADC as its platform.
He recalled that on July 29, 2025, a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting—observed by INEC officials—dissolved the party’s former leadership and installed a caretaker committee led by himself as chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as secretary.
INEC was formally notified, and by September 2025, the commission had acknowledged and published the new leadership.
Dispute Over Party Leadership
The ADC chairman addressed the legal dispute involving Nafiu Bala, a former party official who had earlier resigned but later sought recognition as chairman through the courts.
Mark argued that INEC was fully aware of Bala’s resignation and the legitimacy of the new leadership before the legal action began. He accused Bala of acting in collaboration with external political interests.
Following a Court of Appeal directive to maintain the “status quo,” Mark said INEC misinterpreted the ruling and unjustifiably withdrew recognition from both leadership factions, creating confusion within the party.
Accusations Against INEC
The ADC described INEC’s actions as unlawful and partisan, accusing the commission of taking sides in a political dispute. Mark argued that INEC lacks the authority to determine party leadership, insisting that such decisions rest with party structures.
He further stated that the commission should have sought judicial clarification if there was any ambiguity regarding the court’s directive, rather than acting unilaterally.
According to him, INEC’s decision effectively leaves the ADC without recognized leadership—an outcome he described as legally baseless and dangerous for democracy.
Call for Resignation and Warning
The party demanded the immediate resignation or removal of INEC’s chairman and national commissioners, citing a loss of confidence in their ability to conduct credible elections.
Mark warned that INEC would be held responsible for any consequences arising from its actions, describing the situation as a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic stability.
Next Steps and Public Appeal
Despite the controversy, the ADC reaffirmed its commitment to proceed with scheduled party activities, including congresses and its national convention, noting that INEC’s presence is not a legal requirement.
The party also called on the international community to monitor the situation closely and urged Nigerians to defend democratic values.
Mark concluded by encouraging citizens to remain vigilant, resist any attempt to establish a one-party system, and actively participate in safeguarding the nation’s democracy.
He ended on a hopeful note, expressing confidence that democracy would ultimately prevail and that Nigeria would overcome its current challenges.