Security forces have tightened access around the headquarters of Nigeria’s electoral body in Abuja amid rising tensions within the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The development follows a controversial update to INEC’s portal affecting key party officials.
There was a significant security presence on Saturday at the Abuja headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as authorities restricted movement in and out of the facility amid an intensifying leadership dispute within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Security Lockdown at INEC Complex
Operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Police Force, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were deployed around the commission’s Maitama headquarters, cordoning off the area with patrol vehicles and limiting access.
Although officials did not immediately provide a formal explanation, sources linked the development to rising tensions following recent actions by INEC involving the ADC’s leadership structure.
Controversy Over Leadership Changes
The situation reportedly escalated after INEC removed the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as the party’s National Chairman and National Secretary from its official records.
The move triggered backlash within the ADC, with party leaders describing it as an overreach and accusing the electoral body of bias.
Plans by opposition supporters, including members of the ADC and the Obidient Movement, to stage a gathering at the INEC headquarters were also cited as a factor behind the heightened security.
INEC Stands by Decision
INEC has maintained its position, stating that it will no longer recognise the affected officials and will not acknowledge Nafiu Bala Gombe, who is seeking to assume leadership of the party through legal action.
The commission further said it would not monitor any conventions or congresses organised by factions linked to the delisted officials until the matter is resolved in court.
INEC National Commissioner Mohammed Haruna reiterated the commission’s neutrality, urging political actors to avoid actions that could disrupt preparations for the 2027 general elections.
Legal Disputes Deepen Party Divisions
The crisis stems from competing interpretations of a Court of Appeal ruling and multiple legal claims over the party’s leadership.
INEC confirmed it has received several legal communications from rival factions within the ADC, including requests to enforce court decisions affecting the party’s structure.
ADC Accuses INEC of Bias
In response, the ADC rejected INEC’s stance, accusing the commission of acting under external pressure.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party alleged that the electoral body’s actions were aimed at weakening opposition forces and promoting a one-party system.
The party described INEC’s position as inconsistent and said it would clarify its position publicly after reviewing legal options.
Growing Political Tension Ahead of 2027
The standoff underscores increasing political friction as Nigeria moves toward the 2027 general elections, with internal party disputes and institutional decisions shaping the evolving landscape.
Observers say the outcome of the ADC crisis could have broader implications for opposition politics and electoral dynamics in the country.
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