INEC Suspends Recognition of ADC Leadership Amid Ongoing Legal Dispute

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the suspension of recognition for all factions within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) amid an ongoing leadership dispute. This decision follows a Court of Appeal judgment on March 12, 2026, which directed all parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum pending the determination of the substantive suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

In a statement issued on April 1, 2026, INEC stated it will no longer accept correspondences from either the David Mark-led faction or the Rafiu Bala faction. The commission also declared it would not monitor any meetings, congresses, or conventions organized by these groups until the court delivers its final judgment. Additionally, INEC announced the removal of the names associated with the David Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC) from its official portal, in compliance with the court's directive to maintain the status quo.

The leadership crisis within the ADC began following the resignation of former national chairman Ralph Nwosu in July 2025. Subsequently, David Mark assumed the role of interim national chairman, a move contested by Rafiu Bala, the party's vice chairman at the time. Bala filed Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1819/2025 on September 2, 2025, seeking to restrain Mark's group from presenting themselves as the party's leadership. The Court of Appeal dismissed Mark's appeal on March 12, 2026, leading INEC to adopt a neutral stance and await the Federal High Court's decision.

INEC emphasized its commitment to impartiality and urged all political actors to respect judicial processes to avoid actions that could undermine preparations for the 2027 general elections.