The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of taking steps that could effectively exclude the party from the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Monday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, alleged that recent actions by the electoral body, including its reported refusal to receive official correspondence from the party, may undermine its ability to meet statutory requirements ahead of the polls.
He said the party is concerned that the developments appear targeted at weakening its electoral participation.
The ADC has been facing an internal leadership crisis since July 2025, following a takeover by a faction linked to an opposition coalition. The dispute also involves claims by former deputy national chairman, Nafiu Bala, who is challenging the emergence of former Senate President, David Mark , as national chairman.
The situation took a new turn last week after INEC stated that it would no longer recognise either faction, citing a March 12 Court of Appeal judgment. The Commission also said it would suspend dealings with both sides pending the determination of a related case at the Federal High Court.
However, Abdullahi faulted the position, insisting that INEC’s stance contradicts its earlier engagement with the party. He noted that the Commission monitored the ADC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on July 29, 2025, and had previously acknowledged the outcome by uploading details of the party’s leadership.
He further argued that the refusal to accept correspondence from the party runs contrary to provisions of the Electoral Act, which prescribe timelines for primaries and submission of candidates.
According to him, the situation places the party in a difficult position, as compliance with electoral deadlines may be affected by the Commission’s actions.
The ADC urged INEC to reverse its position, resume receiving official communications from the party, and ensure fairness and equal treatment for all political parties ahead of the 2027 elections.
