The National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rauf Aregbesola, has strongly criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its absence from the party’s ongoing convention. He accused the electoral body of neglecting its responsibilities and described its actions as “illegal and criminal.” During his speech at the event, Aregbesola pointed out that INEC had been formally notified about the convention as early as 2025 but chose not to attend or monitor the proceedings. He alleged that the decision to boycott the convention was rooted in a leadership crisis within the party, claiming that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was orchestrating this turmoil to weaken opposition forces.
This controversy follows INEC’s recent suspension of recognition for the David Mark-led leadership of the ADC as the party’s legitimate authority. This decision has sparked widespread outrage, leading opposition leaders and supporters to stage protests in Abuja, demanding that the commission uphold impartiality and respect internal party processes. Aregbesola has called on international bodies to intervene and support Nigerian opposition parties, citing increasing political interference and institutional bias as significant concerns. He emphasized the necessity for a level playing field in Nigeria’s democratic processes, warning that the erosion of trust in electoral institutions could jeopardize the country’s democratic stability.
As the ADC convention continues amid heightened tensions, delegates remain divided over the legitimacy of competing leadership claims. The outcome of this convention, along with INEC’s subsequent actions, is likely to have significant implications for the party’s role in Nigeria’s political landscape as future elections approach. Political analysts note that this crisis underscores broader challenges facing opposition parties in Nigeria, including internal divisions, state influence, and the critical role of electoral oversight bodies in maintaining democratic integrity. INEC has yet to issue a formal response to the allegations.
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