Nigeria’s political theatre has produced another blockbuster, and this time the hottest ticket is an electronic portal. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has made it clear that only the Senator David Mark-led leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is recognised for submitting candidates for the 2027 general election. According to the commission, the recognised leadership has already uploaded candidates for 471 elective positions, while rival claims of accessing the nomination system have been dismissed as false. In a season where everyone seems eager to hold the steering wheel, INEC insists only one driver currently has the keys.
INEC One Portal, Many Aspirants, One Official Password
The latest clarification from INEC followed growing controversy over claims that a rival ADC faction had successfully accessed the commission’s restricted nomination portal. INEC National Commissioner Mohammed Haruna explained that access was granted solely to the David Mark-led leadership in line with an earlier Supreme Court judgment recognising that faction. Consequently, nominations covering presidential, senatorial and House of Representatives seats have already been received from the recognised leadership.
In true Nigerian political fashion, the nomination portal suddenly became more famous than some campaign manifestos. If keyboards could testify, they might explain who really logged in and who merely posed for imaginary screenshots. While politicians exchanged accusations, INEC calmly reminded everyone that passwords are easier to verify than political press conferences.
Courtrooms Remain Busy as Political Contest Continues
Despite Monday’s Court of Appeal judgment affirming an earlier Federal High Court decision regarding ADC state congresses, INEC maintained that its recognition of the David Mark-led leadership for candidate nominations remains based on the Supreme Court ruling. The commission also indicated it would carefully study the Certified True Copy of the appellate judgment before making any further decisions concerning its implications.
Meanwhile, the ADC has called for the investigation and possible prosecution of factional leader Nafiu Bala Gombe, arguing that falsely claiming access to INEC’s restricted nomination platform amounts to an attempt to mislead Nigerians. The party insists the legal dispute over state congresses is separate from the nomination of candidates, maintaining that its direct primaries remain valid despite the continuing leadership disagreement.
As preparations for the 2027 general election gather momentum, the contest within the ADC shows that internal party disputes can become almost as dramatic as the election itself. While the courts continue interpreting party leadership questions and INEC maintains its official position, Nigerians will be watching closely to see whether the legal battles produce political clarity or fresh controversy. Stay with OGM News NG for continuing updates as this developing story unfolds.
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