Israel Oluyemi
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has removed the National Working Committee led by Sen. David Mark from its official portal following a court directive on the leadership dispute within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
INEC said it acted after a Court of Appeal ruling delivered on March 12, 2026, which directed parties to maintain the status quo while a substantive suit remains before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The commission also suspended all dealings with any faction of the ADC until the court determines the case.
INEC explained that it considered conflicting legal correspondence before taking its position on the matter.
Suleiman Usman SAN & Co., representing concerned stakeholders within the ADC, warned the commission against recognising Nafiu Bala Gombe as acting national chairman while litigation continues.
Summit Law Chambers, acting for Gombe, urged INEC to enforce the appellate court judgment by withdrawing recognition from Sen. David Mark and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and updating its records accordingly.
INEC noted that the current leadership structure emerged after a National Executive Committee meeting held on July 29, 2025, following the resignation of the previous executive.
The commission said it would not participate in any party activities or monitor factional meetings until the Federal High Court concludes the matter.
It confirmed that the removal of the current NWC names from its portal is part of compliance with the court order maintaining the status quo.
INEC reiterated its neutrality and advised all parties to respect judicial processes as the dispute continues.