The Pathfinder
Wednesday April 8, 2026
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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised serious concerns over what it describes as moves by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that could prevent the party from participating in the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party alleged that INEC’s refusal to receive its official correspondence is obstructing its ability to meet key legal requirements, including mandatory notice periods and submission deadlines ahead of the May 10 cut-off date.
The ADC argued that INEC’s stance contradicts its earlier recognition of the party’s leadership structure. According to the party, the commission had previously monitored and acknowledged its activities, including the July 29, 2025 National Executive Committee meeting, which produced a new leadership led by David Mark as National Chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary.
Despite this, the party claimed that INEC has now declined to accept any communication from it, citing a pending case before the Federal High Court. ADC described the development as troubling, warning that strict timelines imposed by the Electoral Act—particularly the 21-day notice requirement—could make compliance impossible under the current circumstances.
The party further alleged that this situation creates what it termed “artificial non-compliance,” which could later be used as justification to exclude it from fielding candidates in the 2027 elections. It therefore called on INEC to reverse its position in the interest of fairness and democratic integrity.
Meanwhile, the ADC Youth Wing has escalated the matter, issuing a 72-hour ultimatum to INEC to restore the party’s leadership as recognized in 2025 or face nationwide civic action.
Addressing journalists in Abuja, the ADC National Youth Leader, Balarabe Rufai, accused the electoral body of undermining democracy and acting beyond its constitutional mandate. He described the situation as a “democratic siege,” alleging that key institutions are being manipulated against the will of the people.
Rufa’i traced the crisis to the July 2025 NEC meeting, where the party dissolved its National Working Committee and constituted a new leadership. He maintained that INEC had initially verified and accepted the outcome before later reversing its stance.
He also accused the commission of disregarding a Court of Appeal directive to maintain the status quo, instead acting on pending legal motions.
The youth leader called on the National Assembly to investigate the matter and consider sanctions, including the possible removal of INEC’s leadership.
He also urged the judiciary to clarify its position to prevent further confusion.
The group demanded the immediate restoration of the David Mark-led leadership on INEC’s official portal, a public apology from the commission, and a renewed commitment to neutrality.
He warned that failure to comply within the stipulated timeframe would trigger peaceful nationwide protests, including the occupation of INEC offices across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The unfolding dispute signals a growing confrontation between the ADC and INEC, raising fresh concerns about the integrity of the electoral process as preparations for the 2027 general elections gradually take shape.
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