ADC Crisis Deepens as Spokesperson Commends INEC for Enforcing Appeal Court Ruling

ABUJA (FCT)

Fresh twists have emerged in the leadership crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress (ADC), as the Acting National Publicity Secretary of the party, Bashiru Abdul Mohammed has thrown its weight behind the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), commending the electoral body for upholding the rule of law in line with a recent Court of Appeal directive.

Speaking during Politics Tonight, a current affairs programme on TVC aired on April 1, 2026, Mohammed praised INEC for what he described as a decisive and lawful move to sanitise the party’s leadership structure.

He specifically lauded the commission’s decision to remove the National Working Committee (NWC) associated with the opposing bloc from its official records, describing the group as illegitimate.

According to Mohammed, INEC’s action reflects institutional discipline and a firm commitment to judicial authority, particularly following the Court of Appeal ruling which ordered parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum pending the determination of the substantive suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

“INEC has demonstrated respect for the rule of law by complying strictly with the directive of the Court of Appeal. This is not just about ADC; it is about preserving the sanctity of democratic institutions in Nigeria,” he said.

Appeal Court Ruling and INEC’s Position

The ADC has been embroiled in a protracted leadership tussle involving multiple factions laying claim to the party’s national structure. The dispute intensified after the emergence of a new leadership bloc in 2025, which was subsequently challenged in court.

In its ruling delivered on March 12, 2026, the Court of Appeal directed all parties to revert to the pre-dispute arrangement pending the final judgment of the Federal High Court.

Acting in compliance, INEC recently reviewed the situation and removed the contested leadership structure from its digital portal, while also suspending formal engagements with all factions to avoid prejudicing ongoing legal proceedings.

While one bloc within the party criticised the electoral umpire—accusing it of bias and political interference—the Bashiru Abdul Mohammed faction has taken a sharply different stance, insisting that the commission acted within the bounds of the law.

Call for Judicial Clarity

Mohammed further called on the Federal High Court to expedite hearing of the substantive case to prevent prolonged uncertainty within the party. He stressed that a timely resolution would restore stability and allow the party to reposition ahead of future electoral contests.

He maintained that adherence to judicial pronouncements remains the only pathway to safeguarding internal democracy and strengthening Nigeria’s political system.

“Our democracy must be guided by law, not sentiments. Institutions must act within legal frameworks, and court decisions must be respected by all actors,” he added.

Deepening Political Divide

The latest development underscores widening cracks within the ADC, with factions advancing conflicting interpretations of both the court ruling and INEC’s actions.

While critics within the party have alleged external influence on the commission, Mohammed’s camp insists that the narrative is misplaced and aimed at undermining lawful processes.

Political observers note that the unfolding situation reflects a broader struggle for control within the opposition party, as stakeholders jostle for legitimacy ahead of the 2027 general elections.

For now, INEC’s decision to maintain neutrality by halting engagements with all factions and reverting to the court-ordered position appears to have reshaped the dynamics of the crisis—drawing commendation from one camp and resistance from another.

As legal proceedings continue in Abuja, attention remains fixed on the judiciary to provide a final determination that could redefine the leadership and future direction of the ADC.