The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has rejected the interpretation given by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on a recent Court of Appeal judgment concerning the party’s leadership tussle.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, described the electoral body’s position as inconsistent and influenced by undue pressure.
The reaction followed INEC’s move to delist members of the party’s National Working Committee from its official portal, including former Senate President, David Mark, and ex-Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola, who were listed as National Chairman and National Secretary respectively.
INEC had maintained that its action was in compliance with a subsisting order of the Court of Appeal directing parties to maintain the status quo pending the determination of the suit arising from the leadership dispute between the Mark-led faction and another group headed by Nafiu Bala.
But the ADC insisted that the commission’s interpretation of the ruling was flawed and failed to reflect the true position of the court, alleging that the decision raised questions about neutrality.
The party further accused INEC of yielding to external influence, claiming the move was politically motivated amid what it described as growing support for the party.
It said it was reviewing available legal and political options, assuring members and supporters that appropriate steps would be taken in due course.
Meanwhile, INEC clarified that the appellate court, in its March 12, 2026 judgment, directed all parties to refrain from actions capable of undermining the pending proceedings, including steps that could alter the situation before the dispute.
The commission added that the names earlier uploaded to its portal were done after the case had already been instituted, necessitating their removal in compliance with the court order.
INEC also declined a request by Bala’s faction to recognise him as acting national chairman, noting that such recognition would contradict the court’s directive.
It further announced the suspension of all official dealings with the party’s factions, including the monitoring of meetings and conventions, pending the final determination of the case by the court.
