Reactions have trailed the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to de-recognise the ADC’s national leadership..
The African Democratic Congress (ADC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and former Anambra State governor Peter Obi have condemned the decision , saying it’s a ploy to cripple opposition.
INEC, through its National Commissioner, Mohammed Haruna, said the move followed a Court of Appeal order directing the commission to maintain the status quo pending the determination of a suit challenging the leadership of David Mark.
As part of the decision, INEC removed the names of Mark and the party’s National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, from its portal and announced it would not recognise any faction, including claims by Nafiu Bala Gombe, until the case is resolved.
The commission said it was responding to conflicting legal claims from rival camps and would suspend all engagement with the party to avoid prejudicing the court process.
Reacting, ADC spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi rejected INEC’s interpretation, insisting the status quo favours Mark’s leadership. He alleged a plot by the ruling APC to destabilise the party.
Similarly, PDP spokesman Ini Ememobong described the development as an attempt to weaken opposition parties, warning of broader implications for Nigeria’s democracy.
The Obidient Movement, led by coordinator Yunusa Tanko, also criticised the decision, cautioning that it could trigger political unrest if perceived as partisan.
INEC, however, maintained that its action strictly complies with the appellate court’s preservative orders and reiterated that it would not deal with any faction of the ADC until the Federal High Court delivers a final ruling.
