The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has intensified its confrontation with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), calling for the immediate resignation of its chairman over what it describes as a deliberate attempt to undermine Nigeria’s democratic framework.
The opposition party, in a strongly worded statement, accused the electoral body of actions it claims are aimed at weakening opposition parties and consolidating power in favour of the ruling establishment. According to the ADC, recent developments within the electoral space point to a broader agenda that could steer the country toward a one-party state.
The party alleged that INEC’s decisions and conduct in recent political disputes have raised serious concerns about its neutrality and independence. It insisted that the electoral umpire must remain above partisan interests, warning that any perceived compromise could erode public confidence in the democratic process ahead of future elections.
ADC further argued that the current leadership of INEC has failed to inspire trust among political stakeholders, particularly opposition parties, which it said are increasingly being subjected to unfair administrative and regulatory actions. The party maintained that such actions threaten the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral system.
In its demand, the ADC called for urgent reforms within the commission, beginning with the resignation of the chairman to allow for what it described as a “reset” of the institution. It stressed that restoring public confidence in the electoral body is critical to safeguarding democracy and ensuring free, fair, and credible elections.
The party also warned that continued actions perceived as biased could heighten political tension in the country, urging stakeholders, including civil society organisations and the international community, to closely monitor developments.
While reiterating its commitment to democratic principles, the ADC maintained that Nigeria must avoid any drift toward authoritarianism disguised as electoral governance. It called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and defend democratic institutions against what it described as emerging threats to pluralism and political competition.
