By Adesakin Adefemi
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has removed the names of Senator David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its portal as national chairman and national secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), respectively.
This decision, based on a Court of Appeal ruling, has sparked controversy with opposition parties accusing INEC of yielding to government pressure.
The ADC has rejected INEC’s interpretation of the court order, alleging the electoral body acted under pressure from the federal government.
The party’s spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, warned that the move could destabilize the democratic process and undermine the opposition’s chances in future elections.
According to Abdullahi, the ADC is considering its next course of action, including possible legal recourse to challenge INEC’s decision. He emphasized that the party is not intimidated by the government’s actions and will continue to fight for its rights.
The All Progressives Congress (APC), on the other hand, has distanced itself from the crisis, attributing it to internal conflicts within the ADC. APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka stated that the crisis was “utterly self-inflicted” and stemmed from alleged disregard for the party’s constitution.
Morka emphasized that the APC is focused on its own preparations for future elections and will not be distracted by ADC’s problems. He urged other parties to take responsibility for their internal affairs and avoid blaming others for their misfortunes.
INEC has announced it will not recognize any faction of the ADC until the Federal High Court delivers a judgment, citing the need to maintain the status quo ante bellum. This decision has been welcomed by some observers, who argue that it will help to prevent further confusion and instability within the party.
However, others have expressed concerns that INEC’s decision could be seen as interference in the internal affairs of the ADC and undermine the party’s autonomy. They argue that the electoral commission should focus on its core mandate of conducting free and fair elections rather than getting involved in party politics.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the ADC will respond to INEC’s decision and what implications it will have for the party’s future.
