Fresh concerns over the independence of Nigeria’s electoral body have emerged following allegations by prominent legal voices that the Presidency may be exerting undue influence on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), particularly in its handling of the leadership dispute within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Former chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, alleged that INEC’s recent decision to de-recognise the David Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC) followed a series of closed-door meetings involving senior officials of the Commission, the Presidency, and members of the judiciary, including the Court of Appeal of Nigeria and the Federal High Court of Nigeria.
At the centre of Odinkalu’s claims is an alleged pre-signed resignation letter tied to INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan, which he said was a condition for his appointment and may have been used as leverage to influence the Commission’s actions.
No evidence of the existence has been seen or verified by anyone.
Odinkalu further criticised INEC for what he described as an overreach, arguing that the body lacks the legal authority to interpret court judgments rather than seek clarification from the courts.
INEC’s controversial move on Wednesday saw it de-recognise the faction of the ADC led by former Senate President David Mark, removing their names from its official portal based on court orders linked to the party’s internal dispute.
Echoing concerns about the situation, human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong suggested that INEC’s actions may be part of a larger, premeditated effort to undermine credible elections ahead of 2027. While noting he had no particular allegiance to the ADC, Effiong said available developments point to a “well orchestrated sinister conspiracy” that could destabilise opposition parties.
The controversy stems from the emergence of David Mark as ADC National Chairman and former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary, following reported resignations within the party’s leadership. However, Nafiu Bala Gombe has challenged the arrangement in court, insisting he never resigned as Deputy National Chairman and should have succeeded to the top position in line with the party’s constitution.
Effiong questioned the legitimacy of the dispute, noting that the party’s National Executive Committee had already ratified the new leadership. He argued that internal party matters are typically regarded as non-justiciable and should not warrant judicial interference, raising doubts about the legal basis for INEC’s position.
He also referenced the Court of Appeal’s directive to maintain the status quo ante bellum, questioning whether INEC’s interpretation effectively creates a leadership vacuum within the ADC despite Mark’s prior assumption of office.
Both commentators warned that the unfolding situation could have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s democratic process, particularly as political activities begin to build toward the 2027 general elections. Effiong went further to suggest that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) may be uncomfortable with a competitive electoral environment, alleging that opposition parties could face systematic destabilisation.
As of now, neither INEC nor the Presidency has officially responded to the allegations, and there is no independent confirmation of the claims, including the existence of any pre-signed resignation letter.
