ADC Defies INEC, Moves Ahead with Congresses, Convention

African Democratic Congress (ADC)

ADC Defies INEC, Moves Ahead with Congresses, Convention

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared that it will proceed with its planned congresses and national convention, notwithstanding uncertainties surrounding its recognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, made this known on Thursday during an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show, amid an ongoing leadership dispute within the party.

Abdullahi disclosed that the ADC had duly notified Independent National Electoral Commission of its scheduled activities, in compliance with the statutory requirement of issuing a 21-day notice. He added that the commission acknowledged receipt of the notice.

Despite INEC’s stance on the party’s leadership crisis, Abdullahi maintained that the ADC would not suspend its internal processes, stressing its resolve to conduct its congresses and national convention as planned.

“We will go ahead with our congresses. We have given INEC 21 days’ notice, and they have accepted the notice. Whether they come or not, we will continue with our congresses and our convention,” he said.

The ADC spokesman also raised concerns over what he described as increasing threats to Nigeria’s democratic process, warning against alleged moves to stifle political competition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He argued that recent developments suggest attempts to limit voters’ choices, drawing parallels with past experiences in the country’s political history.

“If we were in a military regime, one could understand. But we are seeing a situation where everything is being done to make the 2027 election a fait accompli, leaving Nigerians with little or no choice,” Abdullahi stated.

The controversy follows INEC’s decision to remove the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as the party’s National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively, from its official portal.

The electoral body had also indicated that it would not recognise Nafiu Bala Gombe, who is seeking to be declared national chairman through judicial means.

Amid the uncertainty, Abdullahi reiterated the party’s commitment to sustaining its internal democratic processes, warning that Nigeria’s democracy must be protected from actions capable of undermining political plurality.