By Adewusi Aisha
The African Democratic Congress, the Peoples Democratic Party, and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi have protested the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission to de-recognise the ADC National Chairman, David Mark, National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, and others.
INEC announced the decision through its National Commissioner, Mohammed Haruna, citing a Court of Appeal order directing all parties to maintain the status quo pending the resolution of a leadership dispute within the ADC.
The commission removed the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its portal and declined to recognise Nafiu Bala Gombe as acting chairman. It explained that conflicting legal claims from rival factions forced it to step back and suspend engagement with all sides until the court decides.
INEC stated that its action followed the March 12, 2026, Court of Appeal ruling, which ordered parties to maintain the existing situation and avoid actions that could affect the case. It also suspended all dealings with the ADC and will not monitor party activities for now.
Reacting, ADC and PDP officials condemned INEC’s move, calling it a threat to democracy and alleging interference by the ruling APC government. They insisted the status quo should recognise Mark’s leadership and vowed to challenge the decision legally.
Supporters of Peter Obi also criticised the move as politically motivated and warned of serious consequences.However, Gombe’s faction praised INEC’s decision, describing it as lawful and in line with the court ruling.
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