The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), under the leadership of Tanimu Turaki (SAN), has strongly criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its recent decision affecting the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The PDP accused the commission of bias against the David Mark-led leadership of the ADC and warned that such actions could undermine Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Thursday by PDP National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the party expressed concern that INEC’s decision to derecognise the ADC’s National Working Committee (NWC) has heightened political tension. The PDP argued that recent developments suggest orchestrated manipulations against opposition parties, raising fears of a predetermined electoral outcome.
The statement alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is determined to secure victory in the next presidential election “by hook or by crook,” even at the expense of democratic stability. It warned that national institutions, including INEC and the judiciary, risk being perceived as tools for advancing partisan agendas.
The PDP noted that while INEC has the legal authority to monitor political parties, the timing and interpretation of its actions raise suspicions. It cautioned that ongoing activities could lead to the deregistration of opposition parties, further weakening Nigeria’s democracy. The party urged INEC and other institutions to resist partisan influence and adopt a “country-first” approach that prioritises national stability over political interests.
INEC had earlier announced the delisting of ADC leaders, including National Chairman David Mark and National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola. The commission explained that the decision was based on a court order directing it to maintain the status quo pending resolution of ongoing cases.
The ADC has been embroiled in a leadership crisis since 2025, following the emergence of Mark’s NWC. The dispute originated from disagreements over the tenure of former National Chairman Ralph Nwosu, whose term ended in 2022. Nwosu’s involvement in facilitating the 2025 transition sparked opposition from factions, leading to rival claims of leadership and multiple court battles.
Mark and ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi have accused the APC and President Bola Tinubu of orchestrating the party’s internal challenges. However, APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka dismissed the allegations, insisting that INEC’s decision was legally justified and consistent with democratic practice.
The PDP’s intervention highlights growing concern among opposition parties about the neutrality of national institutions. It warned that undermining democratic principles could erode public trust and destabilise the polity. The party urged stakeholders to learn from history, stressing that decisions perceived as partisan could haunt institutions long after the immediate political battles.
With the 2027 elections approaching, the ADC’s unresolved crisis and INEC’s actions have intensified debates about fairness in Nigeria’s electoral process. The PDP’s statement underscores the fragility of the political climate and calls for vigilance to protect democratic values.
