The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, has called for the resignation or dismissal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, along with all national commissioners, over concerns about the commission’s credibility.
Mark made the demand on Thursday in Abuja during a press conference convened to address what he described as growing doubts about INEC’s neutrality and integrity.
His remarks followed the electoral body’s decision to suspend recognition of all factions of the ADC leadership, a move linked to a Court of Appeal judgment and ongoing legal disputes within the party.
According to Mark, INEC’s actions have deepened political tensions and eroded public confidence in its ability to conduct free and fair elections. He accused the commission of bias, stating that its decisions suggest partisanship rather than neutrality.
He insisted that the ADC no longer has confidence in the current leadership of INEC, arguing that the commission, under its present structure, cannot deliver credible and transparent elections.
Despite the dispute, Mark affirmed that the party would proceed with its planned national convention, noting that INEC’s presence is not a legal requirement once due notice has been given. He maintained that the party has complied with all relevant laws governing its internal processes.
The ADC chairman also called on the international community to closely monitor recent developments, warning that they could threaten Nigeria’s democratic stability. He cautioned that continued interference in party affairs could weaken public trust in elections and democratic institutions.
Urging citizens to remain vigilant, Mark described the situation as a critical moment for Nigeria’s democracy, stressing the importance of safeguarding institutional independence and accountability.
He expressed optimism that the country would overcome its current challenges through adherence to the rule of law and commitment to electoral integrity.
Explaining recent changes within the party, Mark said the restructuring followed extensive consultations and was in line with the ADC constitution. He noted that a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held in July 2025 dissolved the party’s National Working Committee and approved the formation of a caretaker leadership.
The caretaker committee, he said, is tasked with stabilising the party and organising a credible national convention. It is led by Mark as chairman, with Rauf Aregbesola serving as secretary.
Mark added that all decisions taken at the NEC meeting were formally communicated to INEC, which initially updated its records accordingly.
He also disclosed that a former deputy national chairman, Nafiu Bala, had resigned, with the development duly reported to the electoral body.
Several prominent political figures, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and John Odigie-Oyegun, were present at the briefing, signalling broad backing for the party’s position and its push for electoral accountability.
