The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of plotting to impose a one-party state ahead of the 2027 elections, alleging the use of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to weaken opposition parties.
ADC National Chairman, David Mark, made the allegation Thursday while addressing journalists in Abuja, where he also called for the immediate removal of INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, over alleged bias.
“The agenda is very clear: to create a situation where, in 2027, President Bola Tinubu emerges as the only option left for the people,” Mark said.
INEC had on Wednesday announced the delisting of key ADC officials, including Mark and National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola, citing a court order to maintain the status quo pending a ruling.
Reacting, Mark accused the commission of partisanship and misinterpreting the court directive. “INEC has invented a status quo that never existed… it has become complicit in undermining Nigeria’s democracy,” he said.
He argued that the commission should have sought judicial clarification if there was any ambiguity. “It is not the business of INEC to determine who leads a political party,” he added.
The ADC has been embroiled in a leadership crisis since 2025, with rival factions laying claim to the party’s structure, leading to multiple court cases.
Mark warned that INEC’s actions could undermine the party’s participation in upcoming elections and internal processes.
“We demand the immediate resignation or sack of the INEC Chairman… we no longer have confidence in them,” he said.
INEC has yet to respond to the latest allegations.
