Before the recent developments, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was embroiled in a leadership crisis that began in 2025, following the emergence of a new National Working Committee led by David Mark in July 2025. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had been recognizing various factions within the ADC, which was expected to foster internal democracy and allow for a resolution of leadership disputes.
However, a decisive moment occurred when INEC halted recognition of these rival factions pending a resolution of the ongoing leadership dispute. This action was taken in response to a directive from the Court of Appeal, which instructed all parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum, although it did not clarify what that status quo entailed.
The immediate effects of INEC’s decision were significant. Key figures within the ADC, including Ralph Nwosu and others, found their names removed from INEC’s official portal, citing the court order. This led to accusations from David Mark, who claimed that the ruling All Progressives Congress was using INEC to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi, a prominent figure in the ADC, challenged INEC’s interpretation of the court order, stating, “The court did not say that INEC should withdraw recognition from either faction. It never did say so.” This highlights the ambiguity surrounding the court’s directive and raises questions about the future of the ADC.
The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room condemned INEC’s actions, warning that they could undermine internal party democracy. They stated, “The invocation of status quo ante bellum in this instance risks entrenching ambiguity and sustaining contested authority within the ADC.” This perspective underscores the potential long-term implications of INEC’s decision.
As tensions rise, the ADC faces uncertainty regarding its internal structure and the upcoming elections. David Mark has expressed concerns that the current situation is designed to create a political landscape where President Bola Ahmed Tinubu emerges as the only viable option for the electorate in 2027.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact definition of the status quo ante bellum as interpreted by the court, and the implications of INEC’s actions on the ADC’s internal democracy remain uncertain. The political landscape in Nigeria continues to evolve, with the ADC at a critical juncture.