The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has rejected the position of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the recent Court of Appeal ruling concerning the party’s leadership dispute, escalating tensions over the ongoing political and legal standoff.
In a statement issued on Wednesday evening, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, accused the electoral body of misinterpreting the court’s judgment and acting under external pressure.
Abdullahi alleged that INEC’s position was influenced by what he described as a government unsettled by the growing influence and momentum of opposition forces, particularly the ADC.
“We reject INEC’s interpretation of the Court of Appeal ruling. We knew that INEC was being pressured by a government that has become jittery from the ADC’s rising momentum even in the face of its relentless assault on all opposition parties,” the statement read.
He further described INEC’s response as inconsistent and contradictory, arguing that the commission’s explanation did not align with the facts of the case or the intent of the appellate court’s decision.
“INEC’s press statement is full of contradictions that fly in the face of both facts and reason. We shall clarify these contradictions for all to see. What is clear, however, is that INEC has caved to pressure and has chosen to side with the government against the Nigerian people,” Abdullahi added.
The party said it is currently reviewing the situation and considering its next line of action, indicating that further steps would be communicated in due course.
Abdullahi urged party members and supporters to remain calm and resolute while awaiting official directives from the leadership, emphasizing the need for unity during the unfolding developments.
He maintained that the ADC remains committed to its political objectives despite the ongoing dispute, adding that the party would continue to engage all legal and democratic avenues available to it.
“Nigeria is rising, ADC is rising,” he said.
The development marks a new phase in the leadership crisis within the party and signals a potential legal and political battle over the interpretation and implementation of the Court of Appeal ruling.
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