A faction of the African Democratic Congress has raised concerns that a recent directive by the Independent National Electoral Commission could prevent the party from fielding candidates in forthcoming elections.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, in a statement on Monday, said the development followed INEC’s decision to suspend the receipt of correspondence from the party pending the outcome of a case before the Federal High Court.
According to him, the move places the party in a difficult position, as it may be unable to meet statutory requirements outlined in the Electoral Act.
Abdullahi stated that available records indicated that INEC had previously acknowledged the party’s leadership structure, including the National Executive Committee meeting held on July 29, 2025, which it monitored and documented.
He added that the commission had also reflected the outcome of the meeting in its internal records, recognising the leadership led by Senator David Mark and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.
The statement further noted that INEC, in a sworn affidavit before the Federal High Court, had affirmed that the leadership transition had been completed and that such internal party matters were beyond judicial interference.
However, the ADC expressed concern that the commission’s current position contradicts its earlier stance and could create unintended consequences for the party’s participation in the electoral process.
The party warned that with INEC’s deadline of May 10 for submission of relevant documents, the refusal to receive correspondence may result in non-compliance, thereby exposing the party to possible exclusion from fielding candidates.
It described the situation as a potential “trap” that could be used to justify disqualification, especially if the court fails to deliver judgment before the deadline.
The ADC also faulted INEC’s explanation that the directive was aimed at preserving the integrity of ongoing court proceedings, arguing that the decision could instead undermine the legal process.
The party called on the commission to reverse its directive and resume engagement with its officials to ensure compliance with electoral guidelines.
INEC had on April 1 announced the delisting of some ADC officials from its records, citing a court order directing it to maintain the status quo pending the determination of the case.
The development is linked to the party’s lingering leadership crisis, which has resulted in multiple legal disputes since the emergence of a new National Working Committee in 2025.
Despite the controversy, Senator David Mark had earlier maintained that party activities would continue as scheduled, describing the commission’s action as unlawful.
