Political Tension Rises as INEC Removes David Mark, Aregbesola from ADC List

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is facing mounting criticism from opposition parties following its decision to derecognise key leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing ongoing legal disputes over the party’s leadership.

INEC removed the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its official portal as National Chairman and National Secretary of the ADC, respectively. The electoral body said the move was based on a court directive ordering it to maintain the status quo pending the resolution of a suit challenging the legality of the party’s leadership.

The decision has drawn sharp reactions from opposition figures, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, whose supporters warned of potential political instability if the situation is not handled carefully.

INEC, through its National Commissioner, Mohammed Haruna, explained that the commission had received conflicting legal communications from rival factions within the ADC. While one group urged the commission to refrain from recognising a rival claimant, another insisted on enforcing a Court of Appeal judgment that invalidated the leadership of Mark and Aregbesola.

The commission stated that its actions were guided by preservative orders issued by the appellate court on March 12, 2026, aimed at preventing further complications until the substantive matter is resolved.

However, the ADC and PDP have alleged that the development reflects political interference, calling it an attempt to weaken opposition structures ahead of the 2027 elections. ADC spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi and PDP spokesperson Ini Ememobong both described the move as a threat to democratic processes.

Meanwhile, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, warned that perceived partisanship by the electoral body could trigger wider political tensions.

The controversy highlights persistent challenges within Nigeria’s party system, where leadership disputes and court battles often complicate internal governance.

Analysts say INEC’s role in navigating such conflicts remains crucial, as its decisions can significantly influence party stability and electoral outcomes in the lead-up to future polls.

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