The National Electoral Commission (INEC) has derecognised the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), prompting party spokesman Yusuf Buhari to challenge the decision in court. In response, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris Keyamo dismissed calls for stability within the party, stating that the legal tussle over leadership legitimacy is the core issue. Keyamo insisted that INEC acted within its powers, describing the derecognition as timely and necessary given the internal disputes. He urged ADC members to appreciate the electoral body's intervention rather than defend disputed leaders.
The ADC had earlier rejected INEC's decision, arguing that it disrupted the party's internal democratic process. However, Keyamo maintained that the commission's action prevents further confusion ahead of upcoming elections. No date has been given for the court hearing on the matter.
Keyamo's swift defence of INEC's move suggests the federal government is comfortable with electoral interventions that align with its political timeline. The ADC's leadership crisis, now in court, will likely delay the party's preparations for elections, affecting its visibility and voter outreach. This benefits larger parties already consolidating alliances. For Nigerian voters, it means one fewer viable alternative unless courts restore the ADC's original structure quickly.
