ADC Faults Revised 2027 Timetable, Says Fielding Candidates ‘Almost Impossible’
Naija News • 4d ago
**"2027 Elections: ADC Knocks INEC Over 'Impossible' Timetable, Accuses APC of Gaining Unfair Advantage"**
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has expressed its strong opposition to the revised election timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the 2027 general elections. According to the party, the new schedule, combined with the legal requirements, has created an almost impossible situation for opposition parties, including the ADC, to field candidates for the elections.
Speaking on Channels Television, Bolaji Abdullahi, ADC's National Publicity Secretary, emphasized that the party's rejection of the timetable is a direct result of its broader objection to the Electoral Act 2026. He argued that the law contains provisions that significantly hinder the ability of smaller parties like the ADC to comply with the requirements for fielding candidates. One such requirement is the need for parties to submit a fully digitalized membership register across all 36 states within a short timeframe, a task that Abdullahi described as "almost practically impossible".
Abdullahi pointed out that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) had a head start in preparing for the election, having commenced membership registration as far back as February 2025 and hiring a consultant to help develop a digital register. He questioned why the APC, with its significant resources, could accomplish this task in over a year, while the ADC, with limited resources, is expected to do the same in just one month.
The ADC spokesperson described the provisions as deliberate obstacles designed to weaken opposition participation. He argued that the law, by penalizing parties that fail to comply with the requirements, is effectively disenfranchising opposition parties and undermining the credibility of the elections. The party believes that the timetable, combined with the legal framework, is not democratic and could have far-reaching implications for the 2027 polls.
The ADC is not alone in its concerns. As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, many are watching closely to see how INEC will address the criticisms and ensure a level playing field for all parties.