“INEC’s Removal of David Mark as ADC Chairman ‘Unjustified’ Atiku Alleges Threat to Nigeria’s Democracy”
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its decision to remove former Senate President David Mark from the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the move as unjustified and potentially damaging to Nigeria’s democratic process.
Atiku accused the electoral body of misinterpreting the law and acting in a manner that undermines democratic principles. He maintained that INEC had no legal justification to remove Mark as the party’s national chairman, arguing that the development represents a dangerous precedent that could destabilize political parties and erode trust in the country’s electoral system.
The former vice president further alleged that the decision reflects bias within the electoral body, warning that such actions could compromise the independence of democratic institutions. According to him, political parties must be allowed to manage their internal leadership structures without interference, provided they operate within constitutional boundaries.
The dispute centres on INEC’s decision to delist Mark as ADC chairman amid ongoing leadership controversies within the party. The commission maintains that its actions were guided by legal provisions and official documentation submitted by the party’s recognized factions. However, Atiku insists that the move disregards due process and sets a troubling precedent for political interference.
This development comes at a time of heightened political activity ahead of future electoral cycles, raising concerns about the integrity of party structures and the neutrality of Nigeria’s electoral umpire.