The National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused a faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), led by David Mark, of engaging in actions that amount to illegality through its alleged defiance of court orders and electoral regulations.
Addressing a press conference, APC National Secretary, Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, dismissed claims by the ADC faction that the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu is undermining opposition parties to establish a one-party state ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Basiru described the allegations as unfounded, noting that Nigeria currently has 19 registered political parties capable of participating in the electoral process, adding that the President lacks constitutional powers to deregister political parties.
He attributed the crisis within the ADC to internal leadership disputes, which he said stemmed from what he described as an improper takeover of party structures, leading to ongoing litigation before the courts. According to him, the decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withhold recognition of contending leadership factions was based on a ruling of the Court of Appeal.
The APC maintained that the appellate court dismissed an appeal filed by the Mark-led faction and directed all parties to maintain the status quo pending the resolution of the substantive case at the Federal High Court. It added that INEC’s actions were consistent with the court’s directive.
Basiru further argued that any grievances regarding INEC’s interpretation of the ruling should be addressed through legal channels, rather than through public criticism or what he termed “defiant conduct.”
The ruling party also criticised the ADC faction’s reported plans to proceed with congresses and conventions despite ongoing litigation, warning that such actions could undermine the rule of law.
“The continued insistence on proceeding with party activities in defiance of subsisting court orders raises serious concerns about respect for democratic institutions and due process,” the APC stated.
The party also faulted calls for the removal of INEC leadership, describing them as inconsistent with constitutional provisions governing the appointment and tenure of electoral officials.
On broader political claims, the APC dismissed assertions that the ADC faction represents a viable opposition coalition, citing what it described as poor electoral performance in recent contests, including local government elections in the Federal Capital Territory.
The party urged the ADC to address its internal challenges rather than attributing its difficulties to external interference, stressing that adherence to the rule of law remains fundamental to Nigeria’s democratic process.
