The numbers
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has ceased to recognize the factions of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by David Mark and Rafiu Bala Gombe. This decision follows a ruling by the Court of Appeal on March 12, 2026, which instructed INEC to maintain the status quo regarding the ADC’s leadership while the matter is resolved in court.
INEC has stated that it will not engage with either faction or monitor their meetings until the Federal High Court decides the ongoing leadership dispute. This development has raised concerns within the ADC, as the party claims that the decision by INEC renders them unable to participate in the upcoming elections.
David Mark was appointed interim National Chairman of the ADC on July 29, 2025, but Rafiu Bala Gombe contends that he should be recognized as the acting National Chairman. The conflicting claims have led to confusion, particularly after INEC received conflicting letters regarding the ADC leadership on March 16, 2026.
Bolaji Abdullahi, a prominent figure within the ADC, criticized INEC’s decision, stating, “INEC don bow to pressure and don choose to side wit di govment against di Nigerian pipo.” This sentiment reflects a broader concern among party members about the implications of INEC’s actions on their political future.
Inibehe Effiong, another ADC member, described the situation as “a well-orchestrated sinister conspiracy to truncate contested and credible elections for 2027.” Such statements underscore the anxiety surrounding the ADC’s ability to navigate the political landscape in light of these challenges.
Felix Morka, also from the ADC, pointed out that the current issues facing the party are largely self-inflicted, attributing them to a failure to adhere to the rules of law. He remarked, “Any problem wey ADC dey face now, na dem cause am by demsefs wit dia failure to ignore di rules of law.” This perspective suggests an internal struggle within the party that may complicate their efforts to regain recognition.
Observers note that INEC plans to remove David Mark’s name from its portal following the court ruling, further complicating the ADC’s position. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact implications of INEC’s decision on the ADC’s ability to participate in elections.
The ADC was adopted as a political platform by a coalition of politicians aiming to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections. As the situation develops, the ADC’s leadership and its capacity to participate in the electoral process remain uncertain.