The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has expressed concern that recent actions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) could hinder the party’s participation in the 2027 general elections.
The party warned that the electoral umpire’s refusal to receive its correspondence may ultimately prevent it from fielding candidates.
According to the ADC, INEC’s decision not to accept its communications has made it difficult to fulfil key legal obligations, including required notice periods and document submissions ahead of the May 10 deadline.
The party, in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, argued that existing records show INEC had previously engaged with and recognised its leadership, making the Commission’s current position inconsistent.
The party said it was compelled to draw public attention to what it described as a troubling development, noting that it possesses documentary evidence, including certified INEC records, attendance logs, monitoring reports, and extracts from the Commission’s sworn affidavit, which it claims establish a consistent account of events.
The ADC further stated that INEC had been formally notified of its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on July 29, 2025, which the Commission attended in an official capacity.
It added that INEC subsequently updated its records to reflect a new leadership structure, with Senator David Mark as National Chairman and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary.
Describing these as verifiable facts contained in INEC’s own records, the ADC said it was contradictory for the Commission to decline all correspondence from the party pending the outcome of a case before the Federal High Court.
It noted that the Electoral Act prescribes strict timelines for political parties, including a 21-day notice requirement and submission deadlines, with INEC itself setting May 10 as the cut-off date for relevant filings.
The ADC argued that by refusing to accept its communications within this timeframe, the Commission is effectively preventing the party from complying with the law.
The party said the situation implies that unless a court ruling on its leadership dispute is delivered before May 10, it may be unable to present candidates for the elections.
