Party says refusal to receive correspondence risks forcing “artificial non-compliance” ahead of key deadlines
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised alarm over what it describes as a developing impasse with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), warning that the Commission’s current position could prevent it from fielding candidates in the 2027 general elections.
At the heart of the dispute is INEC’s alleged refusal to accept official correspondence from the party—an action the ADC says makes it impossible to comply with statutory requirements governing electoral participation. With a submission deadline of May 10 set by the Commission, the party argues that being shut out of communication channels effectively places it outside the legal framework needed to contest.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC said its concerns are backed by documentary evidence, including certified INEC records, attendance logs and monitoring reports. These, the party maintains, demonstrate a consistent pattern of recognition by the Commission of its internal processes and leadership structure.
According to the statement, INEC had been formally notified of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on July 29, 2025, which the Commission reportedly attended in an official capacity. The ADC added that INEC subsequently updated its records to reflect a new leadership, with Senator David Mark as National Chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary.
“These are not claims but facts contained in INEC’s own records,” the party said, pointing to what it considers a contradiction in the Commission’s current stance.
INEC, the ADC noted, has indicated it will not receive further correspondence from the party pending the outcome of a case before the Federal High Court concerning its leadership. The party argues that this position collides with provisions of the Electoral Act, which impose strict timelines on political parties, including a 21-day notice requirement and deadlines for submitting relevant documentation.
By declining to engage with the ADC within this critical window, the party said, INEC is effectively placing it in a position where compliance becomes unattainable.
“In practical terms, unless the courts resolve the leadership issue before May 10, the Commission’s position could prevent us from producing candidates,” the statement said.
The ADC warned that the situation creates what it termed a pathway to “artificial non-compliance”—a scenario in which procedural barriers, rather than substantive failings, could be used to justify excluding the party from the ballot.
Describing the development as a potential threat to electoral fairness, the party called on INEC to reverse its position and resume the acceptance of all lawful correspondence. It also urged the Commission to uphold its constitutional responsibility to ensure equal treatment for all political parties.
The party further appealed to the public to remain alert, cautioning against what it characterised as attempts to undermine democratic processes.
“We call on Nigerians to remain vigilant and wary of what we consider dangerous machinations to subvert democracy,” the statement added.
