ADC Raises Alarm Over “Attack on Democracy,” Demands INEC Leadership Resignation
The Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of undermining Nigeria’s democracy, following its recent decision to withdraw recognition of the party’s leadership.
Addressing a world press conference titled “This Attack on Democracy Will Not Stand,” Mark alleged that Nigeria’s democratic freedoms particularly the rights to choose, associate, and participate have come under sustained assault in recent years under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
He claimed that the move by INEC to derecognize both his leadership and a rival faction led by Nafiu Bala was a deliberate attempt to weaken opposition forces ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Mark explained that the ADC coalition emerged as part of a broader effort by opposition figures to resist what he described as increasing pressure on political parties. He noted that the party’s current leadership was constituted following a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on July 29, 2025, which was monitored by INEC.
According to him, the meeting dissolved the previous National Working Committee and installed a caretaker leadership, with himself as chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as secretary. He added that INEC had acknowledged and uploaded the new leadership structure in September 2025.
The ADC chairman also dismissed claims by Nafiu Bala, stating that Bala had resigned from his position months before instituting legal action challenging the party’s leadership.
Mark criticized INEC’s interpretation of the Court of Appeal’s directive to maintain status quo ante bellum, arguing that the electoral body had no legal basis to create what he termed a “leadership vacuum” within the party.
He accused INEC of acting in contempt of court and abandoning its neutrality, alleging that the commission had become “partisan” and aligned with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“The electoral umpire has taken sides and can no longer be trusted,” he declared.
The ADC warned that INEC’s decision could affect its participation in upcoming governorship elections in Osun and Ekiti states, as well as its scheduled party congresses and national convention in April 2026.
Despite the development, Mark insisted that the party would proceed with its planned activities, noting that INEC’s presence is not a legal requirement once proper notice has been given.
The party called for the immediate resignation or removal of INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, along with all national commissioners, citing a loss of confidence in their ability to conduct credible elections.
Mark also appealed to the international community to monitor the situation and urged Nigerians to defend democratic institutions against what he described as a push toward a one-party state.
“This is not just about ADC,” he said. “It is about the survival of democracy in Nigeria.”
The ADC maintained that its leadership remains lawful and urged party members and supporters to remain calm while the legal process continues.
