2027 Election Tensions: Independent National Electoral Commission faces criticism as African Democratic Congress crisis deepens

INEC Faces Backlash as ADC Leadership Crisis Deepens Ahead of 2027

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is under heavy criticism following its decision to withdraw recognition from the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Prominent opposition figures and senior members of the ADC strongly condemned the move, accusing INEC of acting under the influence of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government. They also called for the immediate removal of INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan.

INEC Responds to Calls for Chairman’s Removal

In a swift response, INEC rejected the calls, emphasizing that its leadership structure is constitutionally protected. In a statement issued in Abuja by the Chairman’s Chief Press Secretary, Adedayo Oketola, the commission reaffirmed its independence.

INEC stated that its establishment, leadership appointments, tenure, and removal processes are strictly governed by the Constitution, particularly Section 157 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

Why INEC Derecognised ADC Leadership

INEC explained that its decision to delist key ADC leaders—including David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola—was based on a court order directing the commission to maintain the status quo pending the resolution of an ongoing legal dispute.

According to INEC National Commissioner Mohammed Haruna, the move was necessary to avoid legal consequences similar to past incidents in Zamfara and Plateau States, where elected officials lost their positions due to disobedience of court rulings.

The commission also stressed that monitoring activities of the faction led by David Mark would amount to a violation of that court order.

ADC Leadership Crisis Explained

The ADC has been embroiled in a leadership crisis since July 2025, following the emergence of David Mark as chairman of a new National Working Committee. Disputes over the role of former chairman Ralph Nwosu triggered internal divisions, leading to rival factions and multiple court cases.

INEC clarified that it had previously recognized Mark’s leadership in September 2025 but was now acting in compliance with appellate court directives.

Opposition Accuses INEC of Bias

Reacting to the development, David Mark accused INEC of undermining democracy and attempting to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections. He alleged that the move was part of a broader plan to create a one-party system and ensure President Bola Tinubu remains the only viable candidate in 2027.

Mark insisted that his faction would continue party activities, arguing that there is no law requiring INEC’s presence for such processes.

APC Fires Back

The APC dismissed the allegations, with its spokesperson Felix Morka stating that the ADC’s problems were self-inflicted. He maintained that INEC’s decision was based on a valid court judgment and consistent with democratic principles.

Concerns from Other Political Stakeholders

The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) expressed concern over the situation, urging INEC to handle the dispute with caution and fairness to avoid undermining public confidence in the electoral system.

Similarly, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) warned that such developments could raise political tensions and threaten Nigeria’s democratic stability.

Voter Register Revalidation Debate

INEC also addressed concerns about its planned nationwide voter revalidation exercise, describing it as a routine administrative process aimed at improving the accuracy of the voter register. The commission emphasized that the exercise is not politically motivated and will be conducted nationwide in phases.

Security Tightened as Protests Emerge

Amid rising tensions, security was significantly reinforced at INEC headquarters in Abuja. Personnel from the Nigerian Army, Police, Civil Defence, and State Security Service were deployed to prevent possible unrest.

Protests were also mobilized by various groups, including the “Concerned Nigeria Youth Forum,” which supported INEC’s decision. Demonstrators gathered under the #OccupyINEC campaign, calling for credible electoral processes.

Another group, the National Opposition Movement, formally notified authorities of a planned peaceful protest, requesting logistical support for traffic control.

Conclusion

With court cases ongoing and political tensions rising, the ADC crisis has added a new layer of uncertainty ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. Analysts warn that how INEC and political stakeholders handle the situation could significantly impact public trust in the country’s democratic process.