ADC Commends INEC for Enforcing Appeal Court Ruling, Calls on Federal High Court to Act Promptly

FCT, Abuja
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for what it described as adherence to the rule of law following the implementation of a recent Court of Appeal directive concerning the party’s internal leadership dispute.
Speaking on Politics Tonight, a current affairs programme on TVC aired at 10:00 p.m. on April 1, 2026, the Acting National Publicity Secretary of the party, Bashiru Abdul Mohammed (popularly known as BAM), praised the electoral umpire for removing what he termed a “factional group of usurpers” from its records.
Mohammed said INEC’s action demonstrates institutional respect for judicial authority and reinforces confidence in democratic processes.
“INEC has shown commendable regard for the rule of law by complying with the directive of the Court of Appeal. This is a necessary step in preserving the integrity of party structures and Nigeria’s electoral system,” he stated during the programme.
The ADC spokesperson further called on the Federal High Court (FHC) to accelerate proceedings on the matter currently before it, urging the court to align its actions with the decision of the appellate court to avoid prolonged legal uncertainty.
According to him, timely judicial intervention is critical to stabilising the party’s internal framework and ensuring that democratic norms are upheld.
His remarks come amid ongoing legal and political tensions surrounding the interpretation of the Court of Appeal ruling involving the party. While one faction of the ADC has lauded INEC’s position as lawful and appropriate, another has sharply criticised the commission, alleging inconsistencies and external influence in its handling of the matter.
In an earlier reaction, a separate bloc within the party rejected INEC’s interpretation of the appellate court judgment, accusing the commission of yielding to political pressure. The group maintained that it would soon clarify what it described as contradictions in INEC’s stance and hinted at further legal steps.
However, Mohammed’s position signals a contrasting view within the party, as he reaffirmed his commitment to due process, democratic values, and respect for judicial pronouncements.
“Our democracy must be guided by the rule of law. Institutions must act within legal boundaries, and court decisions must be respected by all parties involved,” he added.
Observers say the unfolding developments highlight deepening divisions within the ADC, even as legal proceedings continue to determine the legitimate leadership structure of the party.
As the situation evolves, stakeholders are watching closely to see how both the judiciary and the electoral body navigate the delicate balance between legal interpretation and political stability.
