TDThe Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reinstated the names of the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, along with members of his National Executive Committee, on its official website.
The development, confirmed via INEC’s political parties directory, signals a significant shift in the ongoing leadership tussle within the ADC.
The restoration comes amid protracted legal and political disputes over the legitimacy of the party’s leadership structure.
David Mark, a former Senate President, had been at the center of the crisis, with conflicting claims emerging from different factions within the party regarding the authentic national leadership.
At one point, INEC’s website reflected changes that appeared to sideline Mark’s leadership, fueling further controversy and uncertainty within the party.
Way Forward for ADC
However, the latest update by the electoral umpire now lists Mark and his executive team as the recognized leadership, a move likely to influence the direction of the dispute and ongoing legal proceedings tied to the party’s internal governance.
While INEC has yet to issue an official statement explaining the rationale behind the update, the action is being interpreted by political observers as a possible compliance with recent court rulings or administrative reviews.
The leadership crisis within the ADC has raised broader concerns about internal democracy and regulatory oversight of political parties in Nigeria. Analysts note that INEC’s role in maintaining an accurate and legally compliant register of party leadership is critical to ensuring electoral stability and public trust.
As of press time, reactions from opposing factions within the ADC were still being awaited, while stakeholders continue to monitor the situation for further legal or political developments.
Senator David Mark’s Lead Counsel Reacts
Jibrin Okutepa SAN, lead counsel to Senator David Mark, has reacted to INEC’s restoration of the leadership of the African Democratic Congress on its portal without waiting for formal service of the judgment.
Okutepa commended INEC’s respect for the rule of law, contrasting it with the widespread disregard for court orders by many institutions and officials.
He criticized the culture of impunity across government, security agencies, and even within the legal profession, where court processes are often ignored for personal gain.
According to him, INEC’s swift action demonstrated rare courage and adherence to due process, setting an example for safeguarding democracy.
He urged institutions to emulate this respect for judicial authority, warning that Nigeria’s development will remain elusive without genuine commitment to the rule of law.
In a statement he personally signed, Okutepa wrote:
“On this particular occasion I must commend INEC for their prompt restoration of the leadership of ADC on their portal without waiting for letters from the legal team of Sen David Mark.“INEC must do what it needs to do for the good of Nigeria and democracy.“INEC must be bold and courageous to attain good success in protecting and safeguarding Nigerian democracy.”
