Civil society groups have criticised INEC’s handling of the ADC leadership dispute, warning that the decision could undermine electoral integrity ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 elections.
The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room has strongly criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its handling of the leadership dispute within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
It warns that the Commission’s position could undermine democratic stability ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement signed on Thursday in Abuja, by Yunusa Ya’u Convener, Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room condemns INEC’s alignment with a court directive to maintain status quo ante bellum in the ADC leadership crisis, arguing that the decision risks entrenching confusion and contested authority within the party.
According to the statement, the dispute centres on Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly within the ADC, with national implications for electoral governance and democratic processes.
The group warned that INEC’s decision to maintain the previous leadership structure without clear direction could:
- Prolong internal party conflicts
- Disrupt candidate nomination processes
- Undermine voter confidence
It also raises concerns about what it described as growing judicial interference in party affairs, warning that inconsistent or opaque rulings could weaken democratic institutions.
According to the statement, INEC’s stance effectively freezes a disputed leadership structure, despite previously recognising and uploading ADC leadership details submitted in July 2025 to its official portal in September 2025.
READ ALSO
- CSOs Criticise INEC’s Handling of ADC Leadership Dispute
- DSS Detain El-Rufai After Court Hearing in Kaduna
- Minister Yusuf Tuggar Steps Down, Eyes 2027 Bauchi Governorship Bid
The Situation Room questioned why the Commission appears to be reversing its earlier decision, warning that such actions could set a dangerous precedent for future political disputes and encourage prolonged litigation and factionalism.
Key Demands and Implications
The group called on INEC to:
- Reverse its decision and reinstate the recognised ADC leadership
- Ensure transparency and consistency in handling party disputes
- Uphold constitutional provisions and democratic norms
It also urges the judiciary to exercise restraint and adhere strictly to due process in political matters.
The statement emphasises that failure to address these concerns could erode public trust in both electoral governance and the rule of law, particularly as Nigeria approaches a critical electoral cycle.
About The Author
