The Youth Wing of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a three-day ultimatum to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), demanding the restoration of the party’s leadership as recognised in 2025 or risk nationwide civic action.
The group warned that failure by the electoral body to comply could trigger peaceful protests across the country, including the occupation of INEC offices in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Addressing journalists on Monday at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja, the ADC National Youth Leader, Balarabe Rufa’i, accused INEC of acting outside its constitutional mandate and weakening democratic institutions.
Rufa’i described the current situation as a threat to Nigeria’s democratic system.
According to him, “Nigeria is under democratic siege,” alleging that institutions meant to protect the will of the people were being compromised and used against democratic principles.
The youth leader traced the leadership crisis to a National Executive Committee meeting held on July 29, 2025, where the party dissolved its National Working Committee and elected a new leadership headed by former Senate President David Mark.
He said INEC initially verified and recognised the outcome of the meeting in September 2025.
“Months later, individuals who had already resigned resurfaced to challenge a process they had no legal standing in,” Rufa’i stated.
He further alleged that despite a Court of Appeal directive to maintain the last uncontested position, the electoral commission ignored the order and acted on pending motions.
The ADC youth wing called on the National Assembly to investigate the commission’s actions and consider sanctions, including the possible removal of the INEC chairman.
Rufa’i also urged the judiciary to clarify its orders in order to prevent what he described as manipulation of the legal process.
According to him, INEC does not have the constitutional authority to interpret court rulings. He described the commission’s actions as “complicity, partisanship, and institutional sabotage.”
The youth wing demanded the immediate restoration of the David Mark-led leadership on INEC’s official portal, a public apology from the commission, and a commitment to uphold neutrality and the rule of law.
Rufa’i also urged the administration of President Bola Tinubu to avoid actions that could weaken opposition parties.
He warned that failure to comply within 72 hours would lead to nationwide peaceful demonstrations.
“We will not retreat, we will not be intimidated, and we will not be silenced. This is bigger than ADC. This is about Nigeria,” he said.
The development comes days after INEC derecognized the leadership of the ADC due to a pending court dispute over the party’s structure.
INEC chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, had earlier explained that if the party proceeds with its planned congresses and national convention while the matter is still before the court, it could affect the party’s participation in the 2027 general elections.