Juliet Ezeh
Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its handling of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) leadership crisis, alleging a plot to undermine credible elections ahead of 2027.
In a post on X on Wednesday, Effiong described recent developments surrounding the ADC as raising concerns about a “well-orchestrated sinister conspiracy” to truncate a transparent electoral process.
The remarks follow INEC’s removal of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its official portal as National Chairman and National Secretary of the ADC, respectively. The commission also refused to recognise Nafiu Bala Gombe, who is seeking recognition as national chairman through the courts.
INEC further suspended recognition of all factions within the party and announced it would refrain from monitoring conventions or congresses organised by rival groups pending the determination of a substantive suit before the Federal High Court.
Reacting to the decision, Effiong questioned the basis of the dispute, noting that members of the party’s executive had resigned to pave the way for a new leadership led by Mark and Aregbesola, which was ratified by the ADC’s National Executive Committee.
He argued that leadership disputes within political parties are traditionally internal matters, raising concerns about judicial intervention in the ADC crisis. Effiong also referenced a Court of Appeal directive for parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum, questioning whether this implied a leadership vacuum until the case is resolved.
The lawyer further accused INEC of potentially favouring the ruling party, suggesting the developments could weaken opposition ahead of the next general elections.
“Whose script is this INEC playing?” Effiong asked. “It seems that the ruling party, which prides itself as having over thirty governors in its fold, is so scared of a fair contestation. If it is the desire of INEC for Bola Tinubu to contest as a sole candidate – unopposed, in 2027, let the Commission say so publicly. It will save the country the billions of Naira budgeted for the presidential election,” he added.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.