By Wellington Jopelo
The Independent National Electoral Commission has derecognised David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as national chairman and secretary of the African Democratic Congress, sparking protests from opposition parties and political figures.
The commission announced the decision through its National Commissioner, Mohammed Haruna, citing a court order directing it to maintain the status quo pending the resolution of a leadership dispute within the party.
INEC subsequently removed the names of Mark and Aregbesola from its official portal and declared that it would not recognise any faction of the party until the case is decided.
The commission explained that it had received conflicting legal communications from opposing groups, each laying claim to the party’s leadership and demanding recognition.
It stated that its actions were based on a ruling by the Court of Appeal delivered on March 12, 2026, which dismissed an appeal by Mark and ordered parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum.
INEC also rejected a request to recognise Nafiu Bala Gombe as acting national chairman and announced a suspension of all engagements with factions of the party.
The commission added that it would not monitor any meetings or activities of the party until the matter is resolved by the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Reacting, the ADC, the Peoples Democratic Party, and supporters of Peter Obi strongly criticised the decision, describing it as a threat to democracy.
ADC spokesman, Bolaji Abdullahi, argued that INEC misinterpreted the court order, insisting that the status quo should reflect the leadership structure before the legal dispute began.
He alleged that the move was influenced by the ruling All Progressives Congress and warned that the party would challenge the decision through legal means.
The PDP also accused the government of interfering in opposition parties, claiming the development was part of a broader attempt to weaken credible political platforms.
Similarly, the Obidient Movement described the decision as unacceptable, warning that it could trigger political instability if not reversed.
However, a faction loyal to Gombe commended INEC, describing the move as lawful and in line with the Court of Appeal’s directive to maintain neutrality.
The leadership crisis within the ADC is rooted in disputes following the emergence of a new executive led by Mark in 2025, which was challenged by Gombe, who insists he should assume leadership.
The case remains before the Federal High Court, with INEC maintaining that it will not take further action until a final judgment is delivered.