The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has openly criticised the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, accusing him of exceeding his authority and misinterpreting a court directive.
The disagreement stems from a recent ruling by the Court of Appeal, which ordered all parties to maintain the “status quo.” However, both sides have offered conflicting interpretations of what that means.
While INEC believes the directive requires the ADC to suspend its internal activities, the party insists otherwise, describing the commission’s position as not only incorrect but potentially harmful to the functioning of opposition parties.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC reacted to comments made by the INEC chairman during a Friday interview on ARISE News.
The party accused INEC of deliberately twisting the court’s directive in an attempt to halt its lawful internal processes.
According to the ADC, a preservation order is meant to prevent actions that could permanently affect a case before the court, not to shut down the routine activities of a political party.
It stressed that only the courts not INEC have the authority to determine the full meaning and implications of such an order.
Addressing concerns that its planned congresses could interfere with ongoing legal proceedings, the party dismissed the claim, maintaining that its activities remain lawful and do not violate any court ruling.
The ADC also made it clear that the validity of its congresses does not depend on INEC’s involvement, arguing that political parties have the right to manage their internal affairs independently.
On reports of internal disagreements within the party, the ADC noted that such disputes are common in politics and should not be used as justification to suspend its activities.
It further reminded INEC that its role is to remain neutral and allow due process to take its course, rather than acting as an arbitrator in party conflicts.
The party also faulted INEC for raising concerns about possible legal consequences, describing such warnings as speculative and lacking any legal basis.
While INEC has defended its stance as a precautionary measure, the ADC countered that administrative caution cannot override constitutional rights.
Reaffirming its position, the party declared that it would go ahead with its congresses and national convention, insisting that all actions would be carried out in line with the law.
The ADC concluded by urging INEC to stay within the limits of its constitutional responsibilities.
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