The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has dismissed the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) removal of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its portal as National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively. The party's National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, issued a statement on Wednesday rejecting INEC's action and accusing the electoral body of bowing to pressure from the federal government. ADC claimed the move reflects a government anxious about growing opposition strength and intent on eliminating political pluralism. The party described INEC's position as inconsistent and contradictory, asserting that the commission has aligned itself with the government rather than uphold its neutrality. According to the statement, ADC is reviewing its options and will disclose its next steps shortly. Members and supporters were urged to remain calm and united. The full statement emphasized the party's belief that INEC misinterpreted a Court of Appeal ruling and has compromised its independence.
\nINEC's sudden alignment with a government narrative undercuts its claim of autonomy, especially when figures like David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola—both with national profiles—are written out without clear, publicly justified process. If the electoral body is acting on judicial guidance, it owes the public a transparent explanation, not silence. ADC's accusation of political pressure may gain traction unless INEC demonstrates it operates on law, not convenience. For Nigerian voters, this moment sharpens scrutiny on whether election institutions will enable competition or quietly narrow it.
