ABUJA, Nigeria — The faction of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, led by David Mark has rejected the interpretation of a recent appellate court ruling by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, intensifying a leadership dispute that has drawn in key political actors.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, accused the electoral commission of acting under political pressure and misrepresenting the Court of Appeal’s judgment delivered on March 12.
“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,” Abdullahi said.
Electoral Body’s Decision
Earlier on Wednesday, INEC announced that it would cease accepting correspondence from both the Mark-led faction and a rival group led by Rafiu Bala.
The commission said it would also stop monitoring meetings, congresses and conventions organised by either faction pending the resolution of the dispute at the Federal High Court.
In addition, INEC said it would remove Mr Mark’s name from its official portal.
The decision followed the commission’s review of the appellate court ruling, which relates to the contested leadership structure within the party.
Allegations of Political Pressure
Responding to the move, Abdullahi described INEC’s position as contradictory and inconsistent with the facts.
“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 said.
He also alleged that the commission’s stance reflected broader efforts to weaken opposition parties, though he did not provide specific evidence.
Legal Dispute Over Party Leadership
The dispute stems from a suit filed by Mr Bala, a former vice chairman of the party, challenging the emergence of the Mark-led caretaker committee as the party’s leadership.
The case is currently before the Federal High Court, which is expected to provide clarity on the legitimacy of the competing factions.
Abdullahi said the party was reviewing its options and would announce its next steps in due course, urging members and supporters to remain calm.
“Nigeria is rising, ADC is rising,” he said.
The developments underscore the growing tensions within the party and raise questions about its organisational structure as legal proceedings continue.
