ADC Yet to Receive Official Communication on Mark's Removal from INEC Portal
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has stated that it has not yet received any official communication from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) concerning the status of its leadership. This follows INEC's announcement that it will discontinue recognition of both the faction led by Senator David Mark and the claims by Nafiu Bala as factional chairman of the party.
INEC's Stance on Factional Disputes
INEC, in a statement signed by its Chairman of Information and Voter Education, Mohammed Kudu, declared that the commission will no longer engage with either faction. Additionally, INEC will not monitor any meetings, congresses, or conventions of these groups until the matter is resolved by the Federal High Court. The commission further announced plans to remove the names of David Mark from the INEC portal, a move that has sparked significant controversy within the party.
Legal Challenges and Party Internal Conflicts
A suspended member of the ADC, Nafiu Bala, who previously served as the vice chairman before the David Mark-led caretaker committee took control, has approached the courts to challenge the emergence of David Mark and his colleagues at the National Working Committee. This legal action has intensified the internal strife within the ADC, complicating its organizational structure and future electoral prospects.
ADC's Response and Allegations of Political Pressure
When asked whether INEC has communicated its decision officially, the National Publicity Secretary of ADC, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, responded, "not officially." The ADC has raised alarms, alleging that the ruling party is pressuring INEC to destabilize the ADC. The party has also alerted about attempts to recognize individuals who are not members, aiming to discredit the ADC and prevent it from fielding candidates in the 2027 elections.
Recent Developments and Political Implications
In the last 24 hours, the ADC has particularly highlighted that the defection of former Governor of Sokoto State, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has jolted the ruling APC and intensified pressure to attack the ADC leadership under David Mark. This situation underscores the broader political tensions and the potential impact on Nigeria's electoral landscape, as parties maneuver ahead of the 2027 polls.
