According to a report by Daily Post on Thursday, April 2, 2026, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has launched a strong criticism of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), accusing the electoral umpire of acting unlawfully and interfering in the party’s internal affairs amid an ongoing leadership dispute.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, made the claims during an appearance on Morning Show on Arise Television on Thursday. He argued that INEC’s recent actions suggest partiality and a departure from its role as an impartial regulator. “INEC behaving like criminal organization,” he said.
Abdullahi maintained that a former party figure, Nafiu Bala Gombe, no longer has the authority to act on behalf of the ADC. According to him, Bala’s tenure had effectively ended following his resignation, alongside the dissolution of the executive committee to which he belonged.
He explained that the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), which ranks just below the national convention in the party hierarchy, had already taken binding decisions regarding the leadership structure. As such, he argued that any action taken outside those decisions lacks legitimacy.
The ADC spokesperson questioned why INEC would appear to acknowledge moves linked to Bala despite being formally notified of his resignation. He described the situation as troubling, suggesting that the commission’s stance could be interpreted as taking sides in what should strictly remain an internal party matter.
Abdullahi also accused INEC of ignoring a subsisting directive from the Court of Appeal, which instructed parties involved to maintain the status quo pending further judicial determination. He said the commission’s conduct raises concerns about respect for the rule of law and judicial authority.
The controversy follows INEC’s recent decision to update its official records, including the removal of the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as the ADC’s National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively. At the same time, the commission stated it would not recognise any faction within the party until a pending case before the Federal High Court is resolved.
Reacting to these developments, Abdullahi insisted that INEC had prior knowledge of Bala’s exit from the party and therefore had no basis to entertain any claims or actions associated with him. He argued that by doing so, the commission risks undermining its neutrality and credibility.
He further warned that disregarding court directives could erode public confidence in democratic institutions. According to him, adherence to due process and judicial rulings remains essential for maintaining order within the political system.
The ADC maintained that its leadership issues are being handled within the framework of the law and urged INEC to respect both party autonomy and existing court decisions as the matter continues to unfold in court.
