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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has intensified its standoff with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), following a high-profile protest in Abuja on Tuesday that drew several prominent political figures.
Leading the demonstration were the party’s National Chairman, David Mark; National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola; former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar; Peter Obi; Rotimi Amaechi; and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
In a symbolic gesture, protesters opened the rally by singing Nigeria’s former national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” before marching to INEC headquarters, where they submitted a formal petition.
In the letter dated April 8, 2026, the ADC called for the immediate resignation or removal of the INEC chairman, Joseph Amupitan, accusing him of misconduct and abuse of office.
“The credibility of the Commission is now at stake,” the party stated, framing its demand as necessary to protect institutional integrity.
The party alleged that INEC, under Amupitan’s leadership, had abandoned neutrality.
“The Commission’s actions suggest alignment with factional interests, undermining public trust in the electoral process,” the letter read.
The ADC also faulted the INEC chairman for publicly interpreting court rulings, arguing that such actions violate the principle of separation of powers.
“Only the judiciary has the authority to interpret its judgments. Any attempt by INEC to do so constitutes a constitutional breach,” the party said.
Placing the dispute in a broader context, the ADC warned that interference in party affairs could weaken Nigeria’s democratic framework.
“This is not just improper, it is dangerous to democratic pluralism,” the letter emphasised.
The party rejected claims by rival figures to its leadership, describing such moves as inconsistent and legally untenable.
“Those making such claims had previously participated in processes that dissolved the former leadership,” the ADC noted.
To reinforce its position, the ADC outlined a detailed timeline of internal decisions in 2025, including NEC and NWC meetings attended by INEC officials.
“These processes were duly documented, communicated, and acknowledged by INEC itself,” the party stated, adding that its leadership structure had been reflected on the Commission’s official portal.
The party warned that failure to act on its demands would lead to further escalation.
“We will pursue judicial remedies and broader civic action if necessary,” the letter concluded.
The development signals a deepening crisis between the ADC and INEC, with potential implications for Nigeria’s electoral system ahead of future polls.
Observers say the confrontation could test the resilience of democratic institutions and the perceived independence of the electoral body.
