ABUJA, Nigeria — The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, said it will no longer accept correspondence from rival factions of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, following a review of a recent court judgment, signalling an escalation in the party’s leadership dispute.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, and signed by Mohammed Kudu, chairman of the commission’s Information and Voter Education Committee, the electoral body said it would suspend all interactions with both factions led by David Mark and Rafiu Bala.
Suspension of Party Activities
The commission said it would neither recognise nor monitor any meetings, congresses or conventions organised by either group pending the resolution of the dispute at the Federal High Court.
The decision followed INEC’s review of a Court of Appeal judgment delivered on March 12, 2026.
Portal Update and Legal Dispute
INEC also said it would remove the name of Mr Mark from its official portal, according to reports.
The dispute stems from a legal challenge filed by Mr Bala, a former vice chairman of the party, contesting the emergence of a caretaker committee led by Mr Mark to oversee the party’s affairs.
Political Implications
The development comes amid heightened tensions within the party, including a protest staged earlier on Wednesday at INEC headquarters in Abuja by supporters of the Bala faction.
The decision is expected to affect prominent political figures associated with the Mark-led faction, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi.
The commission said it would maintain its position until the courts provide clarity on the leadership of the party.
