(DDM) – The Coalition for the Protection of Democracy has strongly condemned the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission to delist the leadership of the African Democratic Congress from its official portal.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) confirmed that the group described the move as a direct attack on democratic inclusion and a troubling attempt to weaken the growing support base of the ADC.
In a press statement dated Friday, April 3, 2026, COPDEM said the removal of the ADC National Working Committee led by Senator David Mark raises serious concerns about institutional neutrality and the misuse of regulatory authority.
The organisation argued that the development goes beyond an administrative action and reflects a deeper threat to democratic processes in Nigeria.
COPDEM expressed particular concern over INEC’s interpretation of a Court of Appeal directive to maintain the “status quo.”
According to the group, removing a duly recognised leadership contradicts that directive and creates avoidable uncertainty within the party’s structure.
The coalition warned that such actions could destabilise internal party arrangements at both state and national levels.
It also raised alarm that a ruling party with widespread political control appears uncomfortable with fair democratic contestation.
COPDEM questioned whether INEC’s action was aimed at paving the way for an uncontested presidential race in 2027.
The group insisted that if such intentions exist, Nigerians deserve a clear and public explanation from the electoral body.
In its demands, COPDEM called for the immediate reinstatement of the David Mark-led National Working Committee on INEC’s official platform.
It also demanded recognition of the ADC leadership as affirmed during the party’s National Executive Committee meeting held on July 29, 2025.
The coalition further called for an end to all forms of interference capable of destabilising the ADC across all levels.
COPDEM reaffirmed its commitment to democratic principles, rule of law, and institutional accountability.
It urged INEC to act transparently and uphold its constitutional responsibility as an impartial electoral body.
The group warned that failure to reverse the decision promptly could trigger peaceful and lawful civic action across the country.
According to the statement, such actions would be aimed at defending democratic integrity and protecting the rights of political participants.
The statement was signed by Professor Danjuma Saleh, spokesperson of COPDEM, who reiterated the coalition’s position on the need for fairness and transparency in Nigeria’s electoral system.
