ADC Deploys Envoys Abroad to Counter FG Narrative, Raise Alarm on Democracy
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has announced the establishment of a global network of envoys aimed at engaging foreign governments and international stakeholders over what it describes as rising undemocratic practices in Nigeria.
The initiative comes in the wake of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) decision to withdraw recognition from both factions of the party led by former Senate President David Mark and the other by Nafiu Bala, pending the resolution of an ongoing court case.
INEC, in a statement signed by its Commissioner for Information and Voter Education, Mohammed Haruna, said the commission would suspend all dealings with the factions, including participation in meetings, congresses, and conventions. The electoral body cited a March 12 ruling by the Court of Appeal and ongoing proceedings at the Federal High Court as reasons for its stance.
The decision has triggered strong reactions from the Mark-led faction, which accused INEC of bias and called for the removal of its chairman, Joash Amupitan, alleging that his interpretation of the court ruling undermines democratic principles.
In response, ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, announced the creation of a Special Representatives Network (SRN) in key global capitals. He said the move is designed to deepen international engagement and provide what the party calls a more balanced account of Nigeria’s political situation.
According to Abdullahi, the envoys will be stationed in major cities including Washington DC, London, Brussels, Berlin, Ottawa, Paris, Pretoria, Addis Ababa, Nairobi, Accra, Geneva, and New York. Their role will involve interfacing with foreign governments, international organisations, media outlets, and diaspora communities.
He alleged that since July 2025, there have been deliberate attempts to weaken opposition parties, disrupt leadership structures, and restrict political participation across the country.
“The envoys will brief their host countries on developments in Nigeria, particularly issues around governance, electoral integrity, human rights, and the treatment of opposition actors,” Abdullahi said.
As part of the broader strategy, the party also unveiled plans for a national documentation initiative. This effort will involve state party structures compiling reports on incidents such as harassment, violent attacks, arbitrary arrests, and disruptions of political activities nationwide.
The ADC says the twin initiatives are intended to strengthen its credibility on the global stage and position the party as a viable alternative in Nigeria’s political landscape, while drawing international attention to what it describes as growing concerns over democratic governance in the country.
