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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has explained why it no longer acknowledges the leadership of David Mark within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing compliance with a recent court ruling.
In a statement issued by its National Commissioner for Information and Voter Education, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, INEC said its decision follows a judgment delivered on March 12, 2026 by the Court of Appeal, as well as an ongoing case before the Federal High Court.
The Commission noted that it received conflicting legal communications from two factions within the party. One, representing certain stakeholders, warned against recognising Nafiu Bala Gombe as Acting National Chairman while the matter remains unresolved in court. The other, acting on behalf of Gombe, urged INEC to enforce the appellate court’s ruling by removing Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its records as party leaders.
INEC clarified that the Court of Appeal had directed all parties to maintain the “status quo ante bellum” — meaning the situation before the dispute escalated — pending the final determination of the case. The court also ordered an expedited hearing, warning against any actions that could affect the outcome of the case.
According to INEC, the dispute stems from leadership changes within the ADC following a National Executive Committee meeting in July 2025, after the resignation of the former leadership. Gombe, who was then a party official, challenged the emergence of a new leadership led by Mark, arguing that he should have assumed control based on the party’s constitution.
To comply with the court’s directive, INEC said it will revert to the party structure that existed before September 2, 2025, when the lawsuit was filed. As part of this move, the Commission will remove the names of the current National Working Committee led by Mark from its portal.
The electoral body also stated that it will not engage with any faction of the party or monitor their activities—including meetings or conventions—until the court delivers a final judgment.
INEC reaffirmed its commitment to neutrality and adherence to the rule of law, urging all political actors to act responsibly and avoid actions that could disrupt preparations for the 2027 general elections.