The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the removal of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by David Mark from its official portal, in compliance with an order of the Court of Appeal.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the electoral body said its decision was guided by a directive of the appellate court to maintain the status quo ante bellum pending the determination of a substantive suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja. INEC emphasized that it would refrain from taking any action capable of influencing the outcome of the ongoing legal proceedings.
The development comes amid a prolonged leadership crisis within the ADC, with rival factions led by Nafiu Bala Gombe and David Mark both laying claim to the party’s national leadership structure.
INEC explained that the Court of Appeal, in a judgment delivered on March 12, 2026, instructed all parties to preserve the situation as it existed before the dispute and avoid any steps that could prejudice the case before the trial court.
Quoting the ruling, the commission stated: “That the Commission would… refrain from taking any step or doing any act capable of foisting a fait accompli on the court or otherwise rendering nugatory the proceedings before the trial court.”
The commission further clarified that although the names of the current NWC members were uploaded on its portal on September 9, 2025—seven days after the suit was filed—it would now remove them in line with the court’s directive until the matter is conclusively resolved.
INEC also rejected a request from the Bala-led faction seeking recognition of him as acting national chairman, noting that granting such a request would violate the court order. Consequently, the commission announced a suspension of all engagements with the party, including the monitoring of meetings, congresses, and conventions, until a final judicial decision is reached.
Reaffirming its neutrality, INEC urged political actors to respect the rule of law and avoid actions that could undermine preparations for the 2027 general elections. The ADC leadership dispute continues to generate legal battles, with both factions pursuing court rulings to establish control over the party.
