The African Democratic Congress is weighing its next steps after the Independent National Electoral Commission suspended official communication with the party.
The development follows INEC’s decision to de-recognize the party’s leadership pending the outcome of a case before the Federal High Court.
Party Raises Concerns Over Electoral Timeline
In a statement, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, warned that the decision could hinder the party’s ability to participate in the 2027 general elections.
He argued that the situation conflicts with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026.
“On its face, this may appear procedural, but in reality it creates a direct and dangerous conflict with the clear timelines imposed by the Electoral Act (2026),” he said.
According to him, the law requires political parties to give at least 21 days’ notice before conducting primaries and other key activities.
Three Options Being Considered
Sources within the party say leaders are currently weighing three major options:
1. Proceed With Congresses Despite INEC Position
Some party members are considering moving ahead with congresses and the national convention.
However, others warn that this could be used later to invalidate the party’s processes.
2. Move to Another Political Platform
Another option is for party leaders to defect collectively to a different political party.
But insiders say this may take time to gain voter acceptance, especially given the ADC’s existing structure.
3. Boycott the 2027 Elections
A third option under discussion is boycotting the 2027 elections.
However, many stakeholders oppose this idea, noting that it would prevent party members from contesting elective positions.
Party Leaders Hold Emergency Consultations
Party leaders are currently holding consultations ahead of a planned national convention to elect a new National Working Committee (NWC).
The formation of a new leadership team is seen as critical for organizing primaries ahead of the elections.
In another development, former ADC National Chairman Ralph Nwosu criticized INEC’s stance and insisted the party would continue to operate transparently.
“If INEC refuses to receive our submissions, we are going to advertise them in all Nigerian newspapers and broadcast them on radio stations so Nigerians will see that we are following a transparent process,” he said.
He also argued that INEC should seek clarification from the courts rather than interpreting legal developments independently.
Leadership Dispute at the Center of Crisis
According to Nwosu, the party followed due process in restructuring its leadership.
He said the National Executive Committee (NEC) dissolved the former NWC and elected a new team led by:
- David Mark
- Rauf Aregbesola
He added that INEC officials were present during the meeting and that records exist to support the party’s claims.
ADC Rejects Defection Speculation
Nwosu dismissed speculation about moving to another political party, accusing unnamed actors of trying to frustrate coalition-building efforts.
“The owners of our democracy are Nigerians. We will open up our books to the Nigerian people,” he said.
The dispute between ADC and INEC raises key concerns about:
- Electoral fairness
- Political participation
- Legal interpretation of party leadership
Despite the crisis, party leaders remain confident that the situation will be resolved before the 2027 elections.
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