ADC Moves Ahead with Convention Plans Despite INEC Warning

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has reaffirmed its decision to proceed with its scheduled congresses and national convention, despite cautionary remarks from the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan. The development highlights growing tensions between the electoral body and the party amid an ongoing leadership dispute.

In a statement released on Friday by the party’s leadership, the ADC insisted it had met all legal requirements, including formally notifying INEC of its planned activities. The party described any attempt to halt its internal processes as unjustified and reiterated its commitment to adhering to its outlined timetable.

ADC Defends Timetable and Legal Standing

The ADC leadership, through its National Organising Secretary and National Publicity Secretary, stated that the party would not suspend its congresses. According to the statement, notifications had already been sent to INEC on February 27 and March 28, 2026, fulfilling statutory obligations.

The party outlined a detailed schedule for its activities. Screening of aspirants is set for April 7, followed by appeals on April 8. Congresses at the polling unit, ward, and local government levels will take place on April 9, with appeals slated for April 10. State congresses are scheduled for April 11, while appeals will follow on April 12. The national convention is expected to hold on April 14.

ADC officials emphasized that these processes are critical to strengthening internal democracy and maintaining party structure, adding that members have been fully mobilised to participate nationwide.

INEC Raises Legal Concerns Over Planned Activities

INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan had earlier warned the party against proceeding without the commission’s supervision, particularly in light of an ongoing court case. Speaking during an interview on Arise TV, he noted that a pending motion seeking to halt the congresses had not yet been resolved.

He cautioned that proceeding in defiance of judicial processes could lead to significant consequences. Drawing from past electoral precedents, he referenced situations where elections were later invalidated due to procedural violations.

The INEC chairman specifically cited events in Zamfara State, where court rulings overturned electoral victories, resulting in candidates with fewer votes being declared winners. He stressed that the commission’s warning was intended to prevent similar outcomes.

Leadership Crisis Deepens Within ADC

The controversy comes amid an internal leadership crisis within the ADC, following INEC’s recent derecognition of a faction linked to David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola. The move has intensified disputes over legitimacy and control within the party.

Despite this, the ADC leadership remains resolute, maintaining that its actions are lawful and necessary for the party’s continuity. Party officials argue that halting the process would undermine internal democracy and disenfranchise members preparing to participate in the congresses.

Observers note that the unfolding situation could test both the party’s cohesion and the regulatory authority of INEC, particularly if legal challenges escalate in the coming days.