The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, accusing him of exceeding his authority and misinterpreting a court directive.
The disagreement stems from a Court of Appeal order to maintain the status quo, which both parties interpret differently.
While INEC believes it requires the ADC to suspend its activities, the party insists the directive does not prevent it from conducting internal processes.
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC described INEC’s stance as a “wilful distortion” aimed at halting legitimate party operations.
“The preservation order, by its nature, is intended to prevent actions that would irreversibly alter the subject matter of litigation, not to paralyse the internal functioning of a political party,” the statement read.
“That determination lies strictly within the jurisdiction of the courts, not the Commission,” it added.
The party dismissed concerns that its planned congresses could interfere with ongoing legal proceedings, stressing that no court order has barred it from carrying out such activities.
“Democratic continuity within a political party is presumed under the law unless expressly restrained by a competent court,” the ADC stated.
It further argued that INEC’s involvement is not a prerequisite for the validity of its internal processes.
“A party’s decision to proceed with its internal processes does not depend on INEC’s participation.”
Addressing internal disputes within the party, the ADC noted that such disagreements are common in politics and do not justify suspending party activities.
“INEC’s role is not to arbitrate these disputes or to freeze party activities pending their resolution, but to maintain neutrality and allow due process to run its course,” the statement said.
Reaffirming its position, the party declared:
“The ADC will therefore proceed with its activities in full compliance with the law,” urging INEC to stick to its constitutional responsibilities.