By Aminu Garko
The Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, has accused Nigeria’s electoral body of undermining democracy, alleging a calculated attempt to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Addressing a world press conference titled “This Attack on Democracy Will Not Stand,” Mark said recent actions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) signal a dangerous drift towards authoritarianism under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He warned that the country’s democratic gains since 1999 are under threat, stressing that fundamental freedoms particularly the rights to choose, participate, and associate are being systematically eroded.
“Democracy is only sustained by the quality of freedom it guarantees. Without these freedoms, democracy dies,” he declared.
Allegations of Political Interference
Mark alleged that the ruling party is orchestrating efforts to weaken opposition platforms in order to ensure President Tinubu emerges as the sole viable candidate in 2027.
According to him, worsening poverty and insecurity across the country are consequences of governance failures, adding that the government is aware Nigerians may vote it out and is therefore resorting to desperate measures to retain power.
“The agenda is clear to create a situation where Nigerians are left with no alternative,” he said.
Coalition and ADC Leadership Crisis
Providing background to the opposition coalition, Mark explained that multiple political actors united under the ADC to safeguard multi-party democracy and resist what he described as “an emerging dictatorship.”
He said the party followed due process in restructuring its leadership, including a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on July 29, 2025, monitored by INEC, which led to the dissolution of the previous National Working Committee and the end of a caretaker leadership.
Mark emerged as National Chairman, while Rauf Aregbesola was appointed National Secretary.
He noted that INEC formally acknowledged the new leadership structure, including uploading the names of the party’s executives on September 9, 2025.
However, a dispute arose following claims by a former party official, Nafiu Bala, who had earlier resigned but later approached the court seeking recognition as chairman.
Mark said the matter is currently before the courts, with the Court of Appeal directing all parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum.
He criticised INEC’s April 1 decision to withdraw recognition from both factions, describing it as a “deliberate misinterpretation” of the court’s directive.
“INEC has invented a status quo that never existed,” he stated, accusing the commission of acting in contempt of court and abandoning its neutrality.
He further alleged that the commission’s actions demonstrate partisanship and alignment with the ruling party.
Call for INEC Chairman’s Removal
In a strong demand, Mark called for the resignation or dismissal of the INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, along with all national commissioners, citing a loss of confidence in their ability to conduct credible elections.
“We are convinced they are incapable of conducting any free, fair, and transparent election,” he said.
Implications for Upcoming Elections
The ADC chairman warned that INEC’s actions could jeopardize the party’s participation in upcoming governorship elections in Osun and Ekiti states, as well as disrupt its internal processes, including congresses scheduled to begin on April 9, 2026, and a national convention slated for April 14.
Despite the controversy, he affirmed that the party would proceed with its activities, noting that INEC’s presence is not a legal requirement.
Mark called on Nigerians to defend democratic values and resist any attempt to impose a one-party state.
“This is a defining moment. Nigerians must stand firm, speak out, and participate,” he urged.
He also appealed to the international community to take note of developments in Nigeria and hold accountable those undermining the electoral process.
“Democracy Under Threat”
Concluding his address, Mark insisted that the issue transcends party politics, warning that Nigeria’s democracy itself is at stake.
