INEC derecognises David Mark, rival faction amid ADC leadership dispute

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has suspended recognition of the rival leadership factions of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by former Senate President David Mark and Rafiu Bala pending the resolution of the ongoing court case over the party’s leadership.

INEC said it would no longer accept official correspondence from either group after reviewing the Court of Appeal judgement delivered on March 12, 2026.

In a statement signed by Mohammed Kudu, National Commissioner for Information and Voter Education, the commission said it has also decided to distance itself from the activities of both factions until the Federal High Court determines the substantive suit.

“The commission will no longer accept correspondences from either faction of the ADC,” the statement said.

It added, “The commission will also refrain from engaging with both groups or monitoring their meetings, congresses and conventions pending the determination of the case before the Federal High Court.”

INEC said the decision followed letters from lawyers representing both factions, each asking the commission to either recognise or stop recognising the other group based on different interpretations of the Court of Appeal ruling.

One of the legal teams also asked the commission to remove the names of David Mark and ADC National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola from its portal and stop recognising actions taken by their faction.

The commission also acknowledged allegations that it had earlier invited Mark’s group to a political parties’ meeting and monitored a National Executive Committee meeting organised by his faction.