The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the removal of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), led by David Mark, from its official portal.
The decision, disclosed in a statement on Wednesday, follows an order by the Court of Appeal directing all parties to maintain the status quo pending the resolution of an ongoing case at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
INEC explained that its action is meant to preserve the situation as it existed before the leadership dispute within the ADC escalated. The party has been embroiled in a prolonged crisis, with rival factions led by Nafiu Bala Gombe and Mark both claiming control of the party’s national structure.
According to the commission, although the names of the Mark-led NWC were uploaded to its portal on September 9, 2025, the move came after a lawsuit had already been filed on September 2, 2025. In compliance with the appellate court’s ruling delivered on March 12, 2026, INEC has now reversed that action.
The electoral body also rejected a request from Bala’s faction to recognise him as acting national chairman, stating that doing so would violate the court’s directive.
In addition, INEC announced it would suspend all dealings with the party’s factions, including monitoring of meetings, congresses, and conventions, until the court reaches a final decision.
Reaffirming its neutrality, the commission urged political stakeholders to respect judicial processes and avoid actions that could disrupt preparations for the 2027 general elections.
The ongoing leadership crisis within the ADC has led to multiple legal battles, as both factions continue to seek judicial backing to establish control over the party.
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