ADC Vows to Contest 2027 Election Despite INEC Dispute, Warns Against One-Party State

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared its readiness to contest the 2027 general election on its platform, insisting that no regulatory decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will prevent its participation. The party’s stance comes amid an ongoing leadership dispute and legal tussle that has seen INEC withdraw recognition of certain party officials following a court order.

Speaking during a televised interview, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi expressed confidence in the judiciary and maintained that the party would overcome its current challenges. He stressed that the ADC remains committed to the democratic process and will not be deterred from presenting candidates in the next general election.

ADC Leadership Dispute and Legal Battle Intensify

The ADC’s current crisis stems from a leadership dispute that has drawn legal attention and regulatory intervention. INEC recently removed the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its official portal as national chairman and secretary of the party, respectively, citing a court directive to maintain the status quo pending resolution of the case.

The dispute originated from a lawsuit filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where a claimant challenged the legitimacy of the current leadership, alleging irregularities in the resignation process of the former chairman. Despite these developments, Abdullahi insisted that the leadership structure remains lawful and transparent, noting that due process was followed in notifying INEC ahead of party congresses.

He further argued that the commission’s reversal raises concerns about consistency, especially given earlier acknowledgments of the leadership change. According to him, the ADC remains confident that the judiciary will clarify the situation and restore certainty to its internal structure.

Accusations of Political Suppression and One-Party Agenda

Beyond the legal dispute, the ADC has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of attempting to weaken opposition parties in a bid to dominate Nigeria’s political landscape. Abdullahi alleged that recent developments affecting opposition parties are part of a broader strategy to create a one-party state.

He claimed that internal assessments within the ruling party indicate declining public support, prompting efforts to consolidate political control. According to the ADC spokesperson, actions taken against major opposition groups are intended to limit viable alternatives ahead of the 2027 election.

The party also pointed to what it described as the systematic destabilisation of opposition platforms, warning that such trends could undermine Nigeria’s democratic foundations. Abdullahi stressed that the ADC would resist any attempt to erode multiparty democracy through lawful means.

ADC Commitment to 2027 Elections and Rejection of Boycott

Amid calls in some quarters for opposition parties to boycott the 2027 elections, the ADC has firmly rejected such proposals. Abdullahi described election boycotts as counterproductive, arguing that participation remains the most effective way to achieve political change.

He emphasised that the party represents the aspirations of many Nigerians who have endured economic and social challenges in recent years. According to him, withdrawing from the electoral process would amount to abandoning those expectations and conceding ground to the ruling party.

The ADC, which has gained momentum since its adoption as a coalition platform in 2025, continues to attract support from prominent political figures, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rabiu Kwankwaso. The party has positioned itself as a major challenger in the upcoming election cycle.