One week after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) derecognised the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the party’s top officials staged a protest in Abuja, calling on Nigerians to defend democracy.
Leading the demonstration were ADC National Chairman David Mark, National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. Protesters began the rally by singing Nigeria’s former national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” before marching to INEC headquarters to submit a formal petition.
In the letter dated April 8, 2026, the ADC demanded the immediate resignation or removal of INEC Chairman Joseph Amupitan, accusing him of misconduct and abandoning neutrality. “The credibility of the Commission is now at stake,” the party said.
On the same day, U.S.-based lobbying firm Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., announced it would urge Washington to consider sanctions against Nigerian officials over INEC’s action. The firm cited ongoing weaknesses in INEC’s management of elections and warned that similar patterns could undermine upcoming polls.
The INEC action, which removed the names of David Mark-led National Working Committee members from its portal, followed a Court of Appeal order maintaining the status quo in a dispute with rival party factions. INEC explained that Vice-National Chairman Nafiu Bala Gombe, who claimed he had not resigned, was legally entitled to assume leadership, prompting the removal of Mark and others from official recognition.
Observers and political analysts, however, have raised concerns that the move could be aimed at weakening opposition ahead of the 2027 elections. Former Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka, writing for the Athena Election Observatory, warned that “strengthening the institutional foundations of political competition is not a partisan objective. It is a constitutional and democratic imperative.”
Other commentators accused the ruling APC of actively undermining opposition parties. Ifeanyi Diokpa noted alleged court cases against the newly registered National Democratic Congress (NDC) as evidence of deliberate sabotage, while Prof. Ekiyor K. Wellson suggested internal leaks might be aiding such maneuvers.
Despite these challenges, David Mark sought to reassure Nigerians during his 78th birthday Thanksgiving service, saying the ADC remains united and committed to democracy. “Challenges are a normal part of any growing institution. The ADC will ultimately triumph,” he said.
Meanwhile, key opposition leaders have begun discussions on forming a coalition to strengthen their position against the ruling APC. On Wednesday night, figures from the ADC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including Atiku Abubakar, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and former Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami, met at Mark’s Abuja residence to explore a strategic alliance. The meeting, conducted behind closed doors, aimed at coordinating opposition efforts ahead of future elections.
In response to allegations that the APC is trying to dominate the 2027 ballot, Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, dismissed claims of coercion or one-party designs. He emphasised that all 21 registered parties retain the right to contest and that the ADC’s protest reflects political freedom, not suppression.
The evolving situation highlights growing tensions within Nigeria’s political landscape, as opposition parties seek unity and INEC faces scrutiny over its handling of party disputes, with the 2027 elections fast approaching.
