“There Is No Cause for Alarm” — Abubakar Malami Urges ADC Members to Stay Calm Over INEC Decision

Former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, has called on members and supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to remain calm following the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) decision to stay neutral in the party’s ongoing leadership dispute.

In a statement issued on April 2, Malami described INEC’s position as a routine procedural approach, noting that the electoral body is awaiting judicial clarification on the dispute involving David Mark and Nafiu Bala.

He acknowledged that the situation presents challenges but emphasized that such developments are not unusual in Nigeria’s political landscape. According to him, political actors must remain focused despite what he characterized as institutional and systemic pressures.

Malami further alleged that those in power are deploying state institutions and resources to weaken opposition movements. He cited the judiciary, security agencies, and financial influence as tools being used to maintain political dominance, warning supporters not to be discouraged by these actions.

He argued that such measures could ultimately prove counterproductive, suggesting they may deepen public dissatisfaction rather than consolidate authority. According to him, growing discontent across different regions of the country signals increasing political tension.

On internal party matters, Malami urged the ADC to remain vigilant and transparent, stressing the importance of addressing internal challenges, including claims of infiltration within party ranks. He maintained that the current situation with INEC represents a temporary obstacle rather than a decisive setback.

Highlighting what he described as a contradiction within the ruling establishment, Malami noted that despite holding significant political power at both state and national levels, there are signs of unease among those in authority. He attributed this to shifting public sentiment, asserting that electoral outcomes ultimately depend on voter choice rather than institutional control.

He concluded by reaffirming the importance of political plurality in Nigeria, stating that all parties must be allowed to operate freely within a democratic system. Malami expressed confidence that due process would prevail and encouraged citizens to remain committed to democratic principles.