The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of deploying “administrative landmines” aimed at preventing the party from fielding candidates in upcoming elections.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said INEC’s decision to suspend acceptance of correspondence from the ADC—pending the determination of a case before the Federal High Court—poses a direct threat to its participation in the electoral process.
The ADC argued that the move conflicts with provisions of the Electoral Act (2026), which prescribes strict timelines, including a mandatory 21-day notice period and submission deadlines for party activities.
According to the party, INEC had earlier received notice of its July 29, 2025 National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, monitored the proceedings, and updated its records to reflect new leadership, including David Mark as National Chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary.
The party further cited INEC’s sworn affidavit filed on September 12, 2025, in a suit involving Nafiu Bala Gombe, which it said affirmed that the leadership transition had been completed and recognized, and that such internal party matters fall outside judicial interference.
Despite this, the ADC said INEC’s current stance—refusing to accept correspondence—effectively blocks the party from meeting the commission’s own deadline of May 10 for submission of documents.
“In practical terms, unless the court delivers judgment before that date, INEC’s position could prevent the ADC from fielding candidates,” the statement said.
The party described the situation as an “impossible position” that creates “artificial non-compliance,” which could be used to justify excluding it from the elections.
It also faulted INEC’s claim that its April 1 decision was intended to protect ongoing court proceedings, arguing instead that the commission’s action undermines the judicial process.
Calling for urgent redress, the ADC urged INEC to reverse its position and resume acceptance of all lawful correspondence, warning Nigerians to remain vigilant against actions capable of undermining democratic processes.
