Breaking Drama: INEC Drops David Mark, Aregbesola From ADC Leadership

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has removed the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its official portal as National Chairman and National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The commission also stated that it would not recognise Nafiu Bala Gombe, who is currently seeking to be declared the party’s national chairman through ongoing court proceedings.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, INEC announced that it has suspended recognition of all factions within the party and will not monitor any conventions or congresses organised by the rival groups.

The commission explained that this decision will remain in place until the Federal High Court delivers a final ruling on the substantive case.

The move comes amid a deepening leadership crisis within the ADC, further complicated by a recent judgment from the Court of Appeal, which has intensified disputes over the party’s leadership.

Multiple legal battles arising from competing claims have created uncertainty about the party’s legitimate leadership structure.

In the statement, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, emphasised that the commission remains neutral in the dispute.

He urged all political actors involved to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could disrupt preparations for the 2027 general elections.

INEC also revealed that it received a letter dated March 16, 2026, from Suleiman Usman SAN & Co, advising against recognising Gombe as acting national chairman while the matter is still before the court.

Additionally, the commission confirmed receiving a separate request from Summit Law Chambers, representing Gombe, demanding the removal of Mark and Aregbesola from its records.

The legal representatives further called on INEC to cease engagement with the duo and disregard any actions taken under their authority.

These conflicting legal claims from rival factions have further escalated the internal crisis within the ADC, prompting INEC to suspend all official dealings with the party’s contending groups.