•Faults INEC’s decision on David Mark-led NWC

By BONIFACE AKARAH

The Nigerian Voters Organisation (NVO) has urged the African Democratic Congress to proceed with its planned congresses and national convention, despite what it described as the “phantom de-recognition” of the party’s leadership by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In a statement signed by Barr. Jezie Ekejiuba, President of NVO, the group called on ADC National Chairman, David Mark, and National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, “not to be deceived” by the electoral body’s action, which it alleged was aimed at disrupting the party’s preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The organisation said “from all legal angles the de-recognition… cannot stand the test of legal scrutiny as it is void ab initio,” insisting that INEC lacked the authority to interpret court orders in a manner that renders a party’s leadership structure ineffective.

NVO further alleged that the move was “a banana peel laid by APC… to scuttle the planned congresses of the ADC,” claiming it was intended to prevent the party from fielding candidates in 2027.

It questioned how INEC, described as a party in an ongoing appeal involving ADC leadership, could “assume the role of a court of law” in interpreting a status quo order to mean a leadership vacuum.

“It is ridiculous for INEC, a co-party in a Civil Court of Appeal process, to assume the role of a court of law and punish a co-party,” the statement said.

The group commended the ADC leadership for proceeding with its timetable, noting that the move would enable the party to meet requirements of the Electoral Act, 2026.

It added that the decision by INEC was “politically manipulated and sponsored… and legally void as it is unknown to law.”

NVO also issued a seven-day ultimatum to INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, to reverse the decision and resign, warning that failure to comply would result in legal action.

The organisation said it would work with other stakeholders to resist what it described as attempts to establish a one-party state in Nigeria.