INEC Suspends Dealings With Rival ADC Factions Over Leadership Dispute

The Independent National Electoral Commission on Wednesday announced that it has suspended official dealings with the two rival factions of the African Democratic Congress currently led by David Mark and Rafiu Bala, pending the determination of the substantive suit before the Federal High Court.

In a statement issued by the commission’s Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, INEC said the decision followed its review of the March 12 judgment delivered by the Court of Appeal on the party’s lingering leadership crisis.

According to the commission, it will no longer accept correspondence from either faction, monitor meetings, congresses, conventions, or any other activities conducted by the two groups until the court gives a final verdict on the dispute.

INEC also disclosed that names submitted by the rival leaderships, including that of David Mark, would be removed from its official portal until the matter is legally resolved.

The leadership tussle began after Rafiu Bala, former National Vice Chairman of ADC, challenged the emergence of the David Mark-led caretaker committee, arguing that due process was not followed in constituting the party’s interim leadership.

The case is currently before the Federal High Court, where both factions are seeking judicial clarification on the legitimate leadership of the party.

Political observers say the development may further affect the party’s internal preparations ahead of future electoral activities in Nigeria.