Tony Okafor, Awka

The Nigerian Voters Organisation (NVO) has cautioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) against what it described as a “phantom de-recognition” of the national leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), warning that such actions could undermine Nigeria’s democratic process.

In a statement issued Tuesday night by Barrister Jezie Ekejiuba, Human Rights Lawyer and President of NVO, the organisation called on ADC’s National Chairman, Senator David Mark, and National Secretary, Chief Rauf Aregbesola, to remain steadfast and proceed with the party’s scheduled congresses and national convention.

Barr. Ekejiuba alleged that INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, in collaboration with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), is attempting to sabotage ADC’s party structures to prevent it from sponsoring candidates in the 2027 general elections.

According to the statement, the de-recognition is “void ab initio” and lacks legal standing.

“The INEC’s phantom de-recognition is a banana peel laid by the APC, working hand in hand with Prof. Amupitan to scuttle the planned congresses of the ADC. This is an attempt to pave the way for APC candidates to be returned unopposed.”

The NVO also criticised INEC for allegedly overstepping its mandate by interpreting court orders in Appeal No. CA/ABJ/145/2026 between Senator David Mark and Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe & 4 Others, asserting that the commission acted as a “court of law” in punishing a political party involved in a civil litigation process.

Despite the controversy, NVO commended the ADC leadership for their decision to continue with planned party congresses, stressing that this aligns with the requirements of the 2026 Electoral Act.

The organisation further urged Prof. Amupitan to reverse the decision within seven days, warning that failure to comply would compel NVO to seek judicial enforcement.

Ekejiuba concluded by assuring Nigerians that NVO would collaborate with other stakeholders to resist moves that could establish a one-party state, describing the INEC action as “politically manipulated and legally void.”