ADC Faults INEC, Plans Congresses

The Katsina State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is criticising the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, over its interpretation of a recent Court of Appeal judgement concerning the party’s leadership dispute.
The party describes INEC’s position as misleading and inconsistent with the intent of the court ruling, insisting that its leadership structure remains intact despite the commission’s actions.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the development is intensifying political tensions within the ADC as the party prepares for internal congresses ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a press briefing in Katsina, the State Chairman of the party, Alhaji Lawal Tukur Batagarawa, expresses strong dissatisfaction with INEC’s decision to remove the party’s leadership details from its official portal.
He argues that the move is based on a misinterpretation.
Batagarawa explains that the Court of Appeal ruling referenced by INEC only calls for the maintenance of the status quo in the leadership dispute and does not direct the dissolution or suspension of the party’s leadership structure.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the ADC leadership maintains that the commission’s action creates confusion among party members and the general public, raising concerns about electoral fairness and transparency.
Batagarawa reveals that the ADC’s national leadership, in consultation with its legal team, is reviewing the situation and plans to challenge INEC’s interpretation in a court of competent jurisdiction.
Despite the controversy, the party emphasizes that it remains focused on its political agenda, particularly preparations for the 2027 general elections.
The Katsina ADC leadership confirms that all scheduled party activities will proceed as planned, including ward, local government, and state congresses.
The party also reiterates that its national convention, scheduled for April 14, will hold as announced by the national leadership.
Batagarawa notes that the Katsina State chapter fully aligns with the decisions of the party’s national leadership and will continue to implement directives aimed at strengthening party structures.
He further announces that the state leadership will convene a strategic meeting to finalise preparations for the upcoming congresses, describing the exercise as critical to the party’s future.
The ADC chairman also accuses INEC of creating unnecessary uncertainty within the political space, suggesting that the commission’s actions may undermine democratic processes if not properly addressed.
He insists that maintaining internal party democracy is essential, and that external interference or misinterpretation of judicial rulings could weaken political institutions.
Observers note that the dispute stems from an internal leadership tussle that has drawn legal attention, with different factions seeking judicial interpretation of their positions.
The Court of Appeal’s directive to maintain the status quo has become the focal point of disagreement, with both INEC and the ADC offering differing interpretations of its implications.
Political analysts say the outcome of this dispute could have broader implications for party administration and the role of regulatory bodies in Nigeria’s electoral system.
As the April 14 convention approaches, stakeholders within the party and across the political landscape are closely monitoring developments.
The ADC leadership reiterates its commitment to due process, internal cohesion, and adherence to democratic principles as it navigates the ongoing dispute.
The unfolding situation continues to highlight the delicate balance between electoral oversight, judicial authority, and political party autonomy in Nigeria’s democratic framework.