The Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has strongly criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the administration of President Bola Tinubu, alleging a coordinated attempt to weaken opposition parties and undermine Nigeria’s democracy.
Speaking at a world press conference titled “This Attack on Democracy Will Not Stand,” Mark said recent political developments point to a deliberate effort to restrict democratic freedoms and create conditions that would favour the ruling party ahead of the 2027 elections.
According to him, democracy in Nigeria is under threat, citing what he described as sustained attacks on the freedoms of choice, participation, and association. He argued that the current administration’s actions suggest a plan to eliminate viable opposition and limit electoral competition.
Mark explained that the emergence of a coalition of opposition figures under the ADC was driven by the need to preserve multiparty democracy and resist what he termed an “emerging dictatorship.” He maintained that the party followed due process in establishing its current leadership, including a National Executive Committee meeting held in July 2025 and monitored by INEC officials.
He accused INEC of acting unlawfully by withdrawing recognition of the party’s leadership, describing the move as a misinterpretation of a Court of Appeal directive to maintain the status quo in an ongoing leadership dispute. According to him, the commission’s decision has effectively created confusion within the party and undermined its structure.
Mark also dismissed claims of a leadership tussle within the ADC, insisting that the party’s leadership remains valid and legally constituted. He alleged that individuals challenging the leadership were being used by external forces to destabilise the party.
The former Senate President further accused INEC of partisanship, claiming the electoral body had taken sides and could no longer be trusted to conduct credible elections. He warned that its actions could affect the ADC’s participation in upcoming elections in Osun and Ekiti states, as well as its scheduled party congresses and convention in April.
Calling for accountability, Mark demanded the resignation or removal of the INEC chairman and national commissioners, stating that the commission had lost public confidence.
He also urged the international community to pay attention to developments in Nigeria’s political space, describing the situation as a threat to democratic stability.
Addressing Nigerians at home and abroad, Mark called for vigilance and active participation in defending democracy, warning against any attempt to impose a one-party system in the country.
Despite the controversy, he assured party members that the ADC would proceed with its planned activities, insisting there was no legal basis preventing it from doing so.