The African Democratic Congress has demanded the sack of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Amupitan Joash, alleging a plot to impose a one-party state ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party’s National Chairman, David Mark, made the call on Thursday while addressing journalists at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja. He accused the ruling All Progressives Congress of using INEC to weaken opposition parties.
Mark’s comments followed INEC’s decision to delist key ADC officials, including himself and the party’s National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, citing compliance with a court order to maintain the status quo pending the determination of an ongoing case.
The ADC has been embroiled in a leadership crisis since 2025, after a new National Working Committee led by Mark emerged. The dispute, linked to the tenure of former chairman Ralph Nwosu, has led to multiple court cases and factional claims to the party’s leadership.
Reacting, Mark described INEC’s actions as partisan and a threat to Nigeria’s democracy. He alleged that the move was aimed at weakening opposition ahead of the 2027 elections and limiting voters’ choices.
“The agenda is clear to create a situation where Nigerians are left with only one option in 2027,” he said, warning that worsening economic hardship and insecurity could influence electoral outcomes.
He further argued that INEC misinterpreted the court’s directive on maintaining the “status quo,” insisting that the commission lacked the power to determine party leadership.
Mark also accused INEC of undermining the ADC’s participation in upcoming elections and internal party processes, including congresses scheduled for April.
Calling for urgent action, he said the commission’s leadership could no longer be trusted to conduct credible elections, urging Nigerians to defend democratic principles.
Despite the crisis, the ADC leadership said it would proceed with its activities, maintaining that there is no legal requirement mandating INEC’s presence.
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