By Sandra Ugwu, Abuja | April 2, 2026

The political ambitions of key presidential hopefuls on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have suffered a major setback following a decisive intervention by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

INEC announced it has removed the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its official portal as the party’s National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively. The commission also declared it would not recognise any factional leadership or monitor party conventions and congresses until the ongoing legal dispute is resolved.

The development poses a significant challenge to leading ADC presidential aspirants, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi, all of whom are positioning for the party’s 2027 ticket.

INEC’s decision follows a ruling by the Court of Appeal, which ordered all parties in the dispute to maintain the status quo ante bellum—the situation as it existed before the legal action commenced. The case is currently pending before the Federal High Court.

In a statement signed by National Commissioner Mohammed Kudu Haruna, the commission stressed its commitment to neutrality and adherence to the rule of law. It warned political actors against actions that could disrupt preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The crisis stems from competing claims to the party’s leadership. The Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC) asserts legitimacy following the resignation of the previous executive led by Ralph Nwosu in July 2025.

However, Nafiu Bala Gombe, who claims to be the rightful successor as National Vice Chairman, has challenged this arrangement in court. He insists he never resigned and should automatically assume the chairmanship.

Both factions have issued conflicting legal demands to INEC. While Gombe’s representatives urged the commission to recognise him as acting chairman, another legal team cautioned against such action pending judicial determination.

In response, INEC has effectively suspended all dealings with the ADC. The commission stated it would:

Remove the names of Mark and Aregbesola from its portal

Refuse to recognise any claimant to the party leadership

Decline all correspondence from any faction

Avoid monitoring any party meetings, congresses, or conventions

This freeze will remain in place until the Federal High Court delivers a final judgment.

The unresolved leadership crisis threatens to destabilise the ADC ahead of the 2027 elections, potentially weakening its ability to present a unified front. With key aspirants already mobilising, the party’s internal conflict could reshape alliances and alter the broader political landscape.

INEC reiterated that its actions are guided strictly by legal directives and aimed at preserving the integrity of the electoral process.