The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has defended its decision to withdraw recognition of factions within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), saying the action was taken in compliance with a Court of Appeal judgment and in line with the rule of law.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Adedayo Oketola, chief press secretary to INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, said the commission acted to avoid a repeat of situations in Zamfara and Plateau states, where elected officials lost their positions for failing to obey court orders.
INEC’s clarification follows criticism from some political actors who accused the commission of bias and called for the removal of its chairman over the handling of the ADC leadership dispute.
The electoral body had earlier announced it would no longer recognise either the faction led by David Mark or that of Nafiu Bala Gombe, after the appellate court directed parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum, the condition before the suit was filed at the Federal High Court.
Court Orders Restrain Further Action
Despite the decision, the Mark-led faction, through its publicity secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said it would proceed with its congresses and convention.
However, Oketola said the commission is bound by the court’s preservative orders and ongoing proceedings, which prevent it from recognising or engaging with any faction of the party.
He explained that monitoring any congress or convention organised by the Mark-led group would amount to disobedience of a valid court order, especially as the case before the Federal High Court seeks to restrain INEC from participating in such activities.
RELATED NEWS:
- ADC Kicks Against INEC Decision, Alleges Plot to Weaken Opposition
- INEC Withdraws Recognition of Mark-led ADC Over Appeal Court Judgment
- Kwankwaso Officially Joins ADC After Resigning from NNPP
Oketola added that although INEC had approved Mark’s executive committee in September 2025, the directive to maintain the status quo means the commission must fully comply with the Court of Appeal ruling.
He cited Section 287(2) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates all authorities to obey and enforce decisions of the appellate court.
Calls for Chairman’s Removal Dismissed
Responding to calls for the removal of the INEC chairman, Oketola described such demands as unconstitutional and politically motivated.
He said the chairman does not serve at the pleasure of any political party or interest group, warning that attempts to remove him outside constitutional provisions undermine the independence of the electoral body.
Oketola maintained that INEC’s role in the ADC dispute is strictly regulatory and legal, stressing that the commission will not be drawn into internal party conflicts.
Voter Revalidation Exercise not Political
He also dismissed concerns over the planned nationwide voter revalidation exercise, insisting it is not politically motivated.
According to him, the exercise is intended to improve the integrity of the national voter register, which contains data collected between 2011 and 2024.
He clarified that the process is not a fresh registration but an audit aimed at correcting issues such as multiple entries, transfers and records of deceased voters.
Oketola said the exercise will be conducted in phases across the country, with digital options to ease participation, while assuring stakeholders of transparency.
He added that INEC remains focused on preparations for upcoming off-cycle elections in Ekiti and Osun states and will not be distracted by allegations of bias or collusion.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
