The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has engaged the US lobbying firm Von Batten-Montague-York L.C. to assist with issues related to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This decision comes in the wake of INEC’s recent announcement that it has withdrawn recognition of the ADC leadership led by David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola due to a court ruling.
On April 1, 2026, INEC declared it would not engage with the ADC, citing ongoing legal issues as the primary reason. This development has raised concerns about the ADC’s ability to participate in the democratic process, particularly as the party prepares for the upcoming 2027 General election.
Sule Lamido, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, criticized politicians aligning with the ADC, labeling them as “politically displaced.” Meanwhile, Felix Morka, a spokesperson for the All Progressives Congress (APC), dismissed the ADC coalition’s influence, stating, “Fear a party that is a non-starter? Fear a party that is almost as good as non-existent?”
Morka further referred to key figures in the ADC as “twinkle, twinkle, little stars” with no substantial impact on the political landscape. This sentiment reflects a broader skepticism regarding the ADC’s viability as a political force.
Despite INEC’s derecognition of its leadership, the ADC plans to hold its Congress, asserting its commitment to the electoral process. The party has rejected INEC’s decision to remove its leadership from the electoral commission’s portal, indicating a determination to contest the ruling.
The lobbying firm Von Batten-Montague-York L.C. has stated that it represents foreign governments and international entities, not local US entities. This has raised questions about the ADC’s strategy and the implications of foreign involvement in its political maneuvers.
As the ADC navigates these challenges, it faces internal criticisms regarding its leadership crisis, which Morka attributes to internal failings. The party’s future remains uncertain, with observers closely watching how these developments will affect its participation in the upcoming elections.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the ADC’s next steps and the potential impact of its lobbying efforts on its standing with INEC and the broader electoral landscape.