Nigeria’s electoral body, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has removed the names of the leadership team of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by David Mark from its official portal.
INEC said the decision follows a ruling by the Court of Appeal, which ordered all parties involved in the dispute to maintain the situation as it was before the crisis began until the case is fully decided.
The move is part of an ongoing leadership battle within the ADC, where two factions—one led by Mark and the other by Nafiu Bala—are both claiming control of the party.
According to INEC, although Mark’s leadership team was uploaded on its portal in September 2025, this happened after the case had already been filed in court. As a result, the commission is now removing the names to comply with the court’s directive.
INEC also rejected a request from Bala’s group to recognise him as acting national chairman, saying doing so would go against the court order.
In addition, the commission announced that it will stop dealing with either faction for now. This means it will not monitor party meetings, congresses, or conventions until the court gives a final judgment.
INEC stressed that it remains neutral and is committed to following the law, while also warning political actors not to take actions that could disrupt preparations for the 2027 general elections.
