The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has vowed to proceed with its scheduled congresses and national convention despite warnings from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), escalating tensions over the party’s leadership crisis.
In a defiant statement, the party insisted its internal processes would continue as planned, dismissing INEC’s actions as “illegal” and maintaining that it had fulfilled all statutory requirements, including formally notifying the commission.
According to the timetable released by the party, screening of aspirants will take place on April 7, followed by ward, local government and state congresses between April 9 and 11, with the national convention scheduled for April 14.
The standoff follows INEC’s decision to suspend recognition of all factions within the party, citing a court order directing parties to maintain the status quo pending the determination of a suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The dispute centres on the leadership tussle involving a faction led by former Senate President David Mark, whose emergence as national chairman is being challenged in court by a rival claimant.
INEC, through its National Commissioner, Mohammed Haruna, said the commission’s stance was necessary to avoid prejudicing ongoing legal proceedings.
However, the ADC leadership rejected the position, arguing that the law does not require INEC’s presence for the conduct of internal party congresses and conventions.
At a recent press conference, Mark escalated the confrontation by calling for the resignation of INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, accusing the commission of undermining democracy and interfering in party affairs.
He also alleged that the crisis was being fuelled by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), claiming efforts were underway to destabilise opposition parties ahead of future elections.
Reacting earlier, INEC warned the party against proceeding without its supervision, cautioning that defiance could attract “grave legal consequences,” including the possible nullification of outcomes—citing past precedents in Zamfara and Plateau states.
Despite the warning, the ADC remains resolute, setting the stage for a potential legal and political showdown that could have wider implications for Nigeria’s electoral process and party politics.
ADC pushes ahead with convention despite INEC warning amid crisis
