April 1, 2026

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has removed the names of Senator David Mark and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola from its official records as National Chairman and National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress.

The move signals deepening uncertainty over the leadership structure of the party, as INEC also announced it would not monitor any convention, congresses, or internal activities of the ADC until the crisis is resolved.

INEC Rejects Leadership Claims

In a further twist, the electoral body stated it would not recognise Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe, who is reportedly seeking a court order to be declared national chairman of the party.

INEC maintained that recognition of party officials is strictly based on due process, including valid internal procedures and proper notification to the commission in line with the Electoral Act.

Party Crisis Deepens

The decision to delist key figures from its portal underscores ongoing leadership disputes within the ADC, raising concerns about the party’s organisational stability ahead of future political activities.

By refusing to monitor party conventions and congresses, INEC effectively puts a hold on any leadership changes or formal decisions emerging from the party’s internal processes.

Implications

Political analysts say INEC’s stance could significantly impact the ADC’s operations, as activities conducted without the commission’s oversight may lack official recognition.

The development highlights the commission’s continued insistence on strict compliance with electoral guidelines, even as internal party crises persist across Nigeria’s political landscape.