Protest Erupts at INEC Headquarters Over Allegations of Electoral Manipulation
On Wednesday, a significant protest took place at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Abuja, spearheaded by former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, and former governor Peter Obi. These leaders were joined by Rauf Aregbesola, Aminu Tambuwal, Dino Melaye, David Mark, and numerous supporters from the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The protest's primary grievance centered on accusations that INEC was collaborating with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to obstruct the ADC's ability to field candidates in the upcoming 2027 elections. In response, INEC refuted the allegations and asserted its commitment to performing its duties in adherence to the law.
Leadership Crisis Within the ADC Intensifies
The discord within the ADC has escalated, particularly after INEC took the decisive action of removing the names of party leaders David Mark, National Chairman, and Rauf Aregbesola, National Secretary, from its official portal.
INEC's decision followed a ruling from the Court of Appeal, heightening tensions between party factions. Nafiu Bala, the factional chairman, has been engaged in a power struggle with Mark over the leadership of the ADC. Bala, who previously served as the Deputy National Vice Chairman, contested Mark's ratification as National Chairman in July, arguing that he was entitled to assume the chairmanship following the resignation of the prior executive committee.
Legal Maneuvering Escalates
Bala took legal action, seeking an injunction to prevent Mark and his National Working Committee (NWC) from claiming leadership positions within the party. He also requested INEC to recognize him as the acting National Chairman and to cease any recognition of Mark's faction.
A motion for the ex parte application was presented on September 4, 2025. Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja granted Bala's request, instructing the involved parties, including INEC, to explain why the application should not be upheld.
Subsequently, Mark appealed against the ruling on December 18, 2025, questioning the jurisdiction of the court, but the Court of Appeal dismissed his appeal on March 12, 2026, issuing provisional orders in favor of Bala.
Future Uncertain for ADC Leadership
Bala continued his legal pursuits by filing another motion on September 15, 2025. This motion sought to prohibit the ADC from holding any conventions, congresses, conferences, or meetings, while also seeking to stop INEC from recognizing or monitoring such activities until the matter was resolved.
In recent developments, INEC revealed it had received numerous letters from solicitors representing both parties, presenting conflicting claims to leadership and various demands. As the situation unfolds, INEC has stated that it will adhere strictly to the Court of Appeal's orders as it navigates the ongoing leadership dispute within the ADC.