Opposition weighs options as ADC, PDP question INEC’s neutrality

Nigeria’s opposition parties are reassessing their strategies following growing concerns over the neutrality of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) escalating its dispute with the electoral body.

A week after INEC derecognised the ADC’s current leadership, the party’s top figures staged a protest in Abuja, calling on Nigerians to defend democracy. The demonstration, led by National Chairman David Mark, National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola, and prominent political figures including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, culminated in the submission of a petition at INEC headquarters.

In the petition dated April 8, the ADC demanded the resignation or removal of INEC Chairman, Joseph Amupitan, accusing him of misconduct and bias. The party argued that the commission’s credibility was under threat and alleged it had abandoned its neutrality.

Adding an international dimension, a U.S.-based lobbying firm, Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., disclosed plans to push for sanctions against Nigerian officials over INEC’s actions. The firm raised concerns about the commission’s ability to ensure credible elections, referencing both the 2023 polls and recent developments. It said it was already engaging U.S. policymakers and would brief key officials in the coming days.

INEC, however, defended its decision, citing a Court of Appeal order to maintain the status quo. The commission explained that the removal of the David Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC) from its portal followed a legal dispute initiated by Nafiu Bala Gombe, who claimed he never resigned as ADC Vice-National Chairman and was therefore entitled to assume leadership.

Despite INEC’s explanation, critics argue that the move could weaken multiparty democracy. Former Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka warned that Nigeria’s political competition is eroding, stressing the need for stronger institutional frameworks. A report by the Athena Election Observatory also highlighted internal crises across major opposition parties, describing them as symptoms of deeper structural challenges within the political system.

Other commentators accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of fuelling instability within opposition ranks, though such claims remain contested.

Amid the tensions, David Mark reassured supporters that the ADC would overcome its challenges. Speaking at a thanksgiving service marking his 78th birthday, he said the party remained united and committed to democratic values, though he acknowledged that INEC’s decision had created a leadership vacuum ahead of preparations for the 2027 elections.

Behind the scenes, opposition leaders are exploring a possible coalition. A high-level meeting held at Mark’s Abuja residence brought together key figures from the ADC and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including Atiku Abubakar, Seyi Makinde, Aminu Tambuwal, Peter Obi, and others. Although details of the discussions were not disclosed, sources indicated that talks focused on forming a united front to challenge the ruling party.

The PDP, in a statement, described recent developments as part of a broader pattern affecting opposition parties and called for vigilance in protecting democratic values. A communiqué from the meeting is expected to clarify the direction of the proposed alliance.

Meanwhile, the presidency has dismissed allegations that the APC is attempting to dominate the political space. Presidential aide Sunday Dare stated that there is no plan to restrict the 2027 ballot to a single party, noting that over 20 parties remain registered and free to participate.

Dare rejected claims that the ruling party is undermining the opposition, describing the crises within parties like the ADC as self-inflicted. He added that the ability of opposition groups to protest freely demonstrates that democratic space remains intact.

As political realignments gather pace ahead of the next general election, the outcome of ongoing talks among opposition leaders is expected to play a key role in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape.