By Adesakin Adefemi
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally opposed a legal move seeking the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), arguing that the request does not satisfy constitutional requirements.
The commission made its position known in court filings reviewed by TheCable, stating that the process of deregistering a political party is strictly governed by law and cannot be driven by political pressure.
The application was filed by the Incorporated Trustees of the National Forum of Former Legislators, which had asked the court to order the removal of the ADC from Nigeria’s register of political parties. INEC, however, maintained that the plaintiff failed to meet the basic legal thresholds required for such an action, emphasizing that party deregistration follows clearly defined provisions in the constitution and the Electoral Act.
The commission’s response comes at a time when the ADC is grappling with internal leadership disputes that have already led to significant defections. On April 30, the Supreme Court directed David Mark, the factional national chairman of the ADC, and Nafiu Bala, former national vice-chairman of the party, to return to the Federal High Court for the hearing and determination of matters arising from the crisis. That ruling has further intensified uncertainty around the party’s structure.
Since the Supreme Court’s directive, the ADC has seen a notable exodus of prominent members. Among those who have left are Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former Kano State governor, both of whom have since joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). The departures have raised questions about the ADC’s viability heading into future elections.
INEC’s stance underscores its role as an independent regulatory body insulated from political interference. In its filings, the commission reiterated that deregistration is not an arbitrary process but one that requires specific legal grounds, including failure to meet membership or electoral performance criteria set out in the constitution.
The case highlights the growing legal and political battles within Nigeria’s opposition space ahead of the 2027 election cycle. With multiple factions and realignments reshaping party dynamics, the ADC’s leadership tussle has become a focal point for both legal observers and political analysts watching the broader opposition landscape.
Legal experts say INEC’s opposition could strengthen the party’s position in court by reinforcing the principle that political disputes should be resolved through internal and judicial processes rather than administrative deregistration. They also note that the commission’s position may set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.
For now, the matter remains before the Federal High Court, which will determine whether the former legislators’ petition has merit. The outcome is expected to have implications not only for the ADC but also for how political parties are protected under Nigeria’s electoral framework.
As the leadership dispute continues to unfold, the ADC faces the dual challenge of resolving internal conflicts while retaining its relevance in an increasingly competitive political environment. INEC’s intervention signals that, at least legally, the party’s status remains intact pending the court’s decision.
