ADC Blasts INEC, Cites 'Political Pressure' in Leadership Tussle
The African Democratic Congress (ADC), under the leadership of Senator David Mark, has strongly criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its interpretation of a recent Court of Appeal ruling concerning the party's ongoing leadership dispute. The ADC asserts that INEC's stance is a capitulation to political pressure.
In a forceful statement released Wednesday evening, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party's National Publicity Secretary, accused the electoral body of succumbing to external influence. Abdullahi specifically alleged that INEC's position was orchestrated by a government unnerved by the ADC's burgeoning momentum, despite what he described as relentless efforts to undermine opposition parties and impose a one-party system.
“We reject INEC’s interpretation of the Court of Appeal ruling. We knew that INEC was being pressured by a government that has become jittery from the ADC’s rising momentum, even in the face of its relentless assault on all opposition parties,” the statement declared.
Abdullahi further lambasted INEC’s communication, labeling its statement as inconsistent and lacking both factual and logical grounding. “INEC’s press statement is full of contradictions that fly in the face of both facts and reason. We shall clarify these contradictions for all to see. What is clear, however, is that INEC has caved to pressure and has chosen to side with the government against the Nigerian people,” he added.
The ADC spokesman confirmed that the party is currently evaluating its strategic options and will announce its subsequent actions in due course. He called upon party members and supporters to maintain calm and resolve during this period, expressing unwavering confidence in the party's future. “Nigeria is rising, ADC is rising,” Abdullahi affirmed.
INEC's Stance Amidst Party Infighting
Earlier on Wednesday, INEC had announced a significant shift in its engagement with the ADC. Following a review of the March 12th Court of Appeal judgment, the commission stated it would no longer accept correspondences from either the Senator David Mark-led ADC faction or the group led by Rafiu Bala.
A statement signed by Mohammed Kudu, Chairman of Information and Voter Education, outlined the commission's immediate actions:
- Ceasing engagement with both the David Mark-led and Rafiu Bala-led factions.
- Halting the monitoring of any meetings, congresses, or conventions organized by either group.
- Removing the name of Senator David Mark from the INEC portal.
These measures are to remain in effect until the Federal High Court delivers a conclusive judgment on the matter.
Background to the Leadership Crisis
The leadership imbroglio within the African Democratic Congress originated when Rafiu Bala, who previously served as the ADC's vice chairman, initiated legal proceedings. Bala challenged the legitimacy of the caretaker committee's emergence, which saw Senator David Mark and his colleagues assume control of the party's National Working Committee. This ongoing legal battle forms the core of the current dispute, which has now drawn INEC into a direct confrontation with one of the party's factions.