A major political storm has erupted in Nigeria following the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) decision to de-recognize Senator David Mark and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola as National Chairman and National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), respectively.
The move has triggered sharp reactions across Nigeria’s political landscape, with opposition parties alleging a coordinated attempt to weaken them ahead of the 2027 general elections. The ADC has vowed to proceed with its congresses and national convention, despite INEC’s statement that it would not attend.
Senator Mark has accused INEC of acting in contempt of the Court of Appeal and demanded the resignation of the INEC Chairman and National Commissioners. The party has also accused President Bola Tinubu of being afraid of a free and fair contest in 2027, given the APC’s dominance in the National Assembly and state governorships.
The Presidency has advised the ADC to consult a dictionary to understand the meaning of “status quo antebellum” and “status quo,” while the APC has described the ADC’s leadership as an “irregular takeover” that has steered the party towards disaster.
Other stakeholders, including the PDP, Afenifere, and Ohanaeze Ndigbo, have expressed concerns over INEC’s decision, warning that it could undermine Nigeria’s democracy and stability.
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