The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has rejected directives from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and announced it will hold its congresses and national convention as scheduled. Despite INEC's warning, the party confirmed that aspirant screening will take place on 7 April, appeals on 8 April, and polling unit, ward, and local government congresses on 9 April. State congresses are set for 11 April, with the national convention planned for 14 April. In a statement signed by National Organising Secretary Chinedu Idigo and National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC said it had formally notified INEC on 27 February 2026 and 28 March 2026, and accused the commission of illegal actions.
The party's National Chairman, David Mark, demanded the resignation of INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan and all national commissioners, claiming the commission has compromised its neutrality. He argued that INEC's decision to freeze recognition of the ADC leadership followed a misinterpretation of a Court of Appeal ruling that required all factions to maintain the status quo. The legal dispute originated from a suit filed by former National Vice Chairman Nafiu Bala, who is contesting Mark's emergence as chairman after Ralph Nwosu's resignation. INEC maintains it will not recognise any faction until the Federal High Court determines the case.
David Mark's defiance of INEC does not resolve the ADC's legitimacy crisis—it deepens the confusion voters will face ahead of elections. The party's insistence on proceeding without recognised leadership undermines its claim to democratic integrity. When courts have mandated status quo, public spectacle over internal processes only weakens public trust. For Nigerian voters, this signals more political theatre, not credible opposition.
