ADC Sets Dates for Congresses, Defies INEC Directive

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has confirmed it will proceed with its planned congresses and national convention despite objections from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), deepening a leadership dispute within the party.

In a statement issued on Friday, the party said it had complied with all legal requirements, including formally notifying INEC of its scheduled activities. The statement was signed by National Organising Secretary Chinedu Idigo and National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi.

According to the timetable released by the party, screening of aspirants will take place on 7 April, followed by appeals on 8 April. Polling unit, ward and local government congresses are scheduled for 9 April, with appeals slated for 10 April. State congresses will hold on 11 April, followed by appeals on 12 April, while the national convention is fixed for 14 April.

The ADC said its decision to proceed was based on its interpretation of the law, maintaining that INEC’s position lacks legal backing. The party described the commission’s actions as interference in its internal affairs and insisted that it is not required to obtain approval or supervision from INEC to conduct congresses and conventions.

The dispute follows a recent directive by INEC stating it would not recognise any faction of the party pending the resolution of an ongoing court case. The commission’s position is based on a ruling by the Court of Appeal directing all parties to maintain the status quo until the substantive matter before the Federal High Court is determined.

The case was filed by Nafiu Bala, a former national vice chairman of the party, who is challenging the emergence of David Mark as national chairman. Mr Bala is asking the court to declare him the legitimate leader in line with the party’s constitution.

ADC leaders have rejected INEC’s interpretation of the appellate court ruling. Mr Mark argued that the commission does not have the authority to suspend recognition of the party, adding that INEC should have sought clarification from the court if there were uncertainties about the judgment.

Tensions escalated further after the party called for the resignation of INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan and other national commissioners, accusing the commission of undermining democratic processes and interfering in party affairs. Mr Mark also alleged that external political forces were contributing to the crisis, although he did not provide evidence.

INEC has, however, warned the party against proceeding with its planned activities while legal proceedings are ongoing. Speaking earlier, Mr Amupitan said ignoring court processes could have serious consequences, citing past cases where electoral victories were nullified due to non-compliance with judicial orders.

Despite the warning, the ADC maintains that its congresses and national convention will go ahead as scheduled.