The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of creating what it described as “deliberate administrative landmines” aimed at preventing the party from fielding candidates in the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party alleged that INEC’s recent actions could effectively exclude it from the electoral process.
At the centre of the dispute is INEC’s decision to stop accepting correspondence from the ADC pending the outcome of a case before the Federal High Court. While the commission maintains that the move is procedural, the party argues it directly threatens its ability to meet legal requirements.
The ADC pointed to provisions in the Electoral Act 2026, including mandatory timelines such as the 21-day notice for political activities and submission deadlines, noting that May 10 has already been set by INEC for compliance.
According to the party, refusing to receive its communications within this period places it in an “impossible position,” potentially leading to what it called “artificial non-compliance” that could later justify its disqualification.
The party also insisted that INEC had previously recognised its leadership structure, citing records of its July 29, 2025 National Executive Committee meeting, which produced David Mark as National Chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary.
It further referenced an affidavit reportedly filed by INEC in September 2025 affirming that the party’s leadership transition had been completed and that such internal matters fall outside judicial interference.
Despite this, the ADC accused the electoral body of taking a contradictory stance by halting engagement while still enforcing strict compliance deadlines.
While INEC said its decision was to avoid interfering with ongoing court proceedings, the party rejected the explanation, warning that the move could undermine democratic principles and fair participation.
The ADC called on INEC to reverse its position and resume accepting its correspondence, urging Nigerians to remain vigilant over what it described as attempts to subvert the democratic process.
