A fresh political storm has erupted in Nigeria after the African Democratic Congress (ADC) accused the electoral umpire of undermining democracy and acting in favour of the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Addressing a world press conference at the Shehu Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja on Thursday, the party’s National Chairman, David Mark, alleged that recent actions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) amounted to “a direct assault on Nigeria’s democracy.”
“This attack on democracy will not stand,” Mark declared.
He argued that although Nigeria has enjoyed uninterrupted democratic rule since 1999, recent developments under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu have raised serious concerns about the survival of democratic freedoms.
“Democracy is only sustained by the quality of freedom that it offers and guarantees… without them, democracy dies,” he said.
Mark accused the government of attempting to weaken opposition parties in order to secure victory in 2027, alleging that “the agenda is very clear, to create a situation where, in 2027, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu emerges as the only option left for the people.”
The ADC chairman also linked the country’s economic hardship and insecurity to what he described as government failure, stating: “The twin challenge of deepening poverty and worsening security situation in the country did not just happen. They are direct consequences of the failure of this government.”
Leadership Dispute and INEC’s Role
At the centre of the controversy is INEC’s April 1 decision to withdraw recognition from both the ADC leadership led by Mark and a rival faction allegedly headed by Nafiu Bala.
Mark maintained that there was no legitimate dispute within the party, insisting that the current leadership emerged from a properly constituted National Executive Committee meeting held in July 2025 and monitored by INEC.
“There are no competing claims on the leadership of the ADC. Nafiu Bala has no locus whatsoever,” he said.
He further accused INEC of misinterpreting a Court of Appeal ruling that directed the parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum, arguing that the commission exceeded its powers.
“With its press release yesterday, INEC has invented a status quo that never existed,” Mark stated, adding that the commission “has chosen the path of dishonor and has become complicit in undermining Nigeria’s democracy.”
Call for Resignation
In a strongly worded demand, the ADC called for the removal of INEC’s leadership, including its chairman, Joash Amupitan.
“We demand the immediate resignation or sack of the INEC Chairman, Professor Amupitan, and all the National Commissioners. We no longer have confidence in them,” Mark said.
He warned that the commission would be held responsible for any fallout arising from its actions.
Implications for Elections
The party warned that INEC’s decision could affect its participation in upcoming governorship elections in Osun and Ekiti states, as well as its internal congresses scheduled to begin on April 9.
Despite the controversy, Mark insisted that the ADC would proceed with its planned activities, noting that INEC’s presence was not a legal requirement.
Appeal to Nigerians and International Community
Mark called on Nigerians to resist what he described as attempts to impose a one-party state, urging citizens to defend democratic values.
“This is a defining moment. Stand firm. Speak out. Participate. Resist any attempt to impose a one-party state on Nigeria,” he said.
He also appealed to the international community to monitor developments and hold accountable those undermining the electoral process.
Ending on a defiant note, Mark declared, “Nigeria will not be silenced. Nigeria will not be conquered. Nigeria is rising, ADC is rising.”
