News, Politics

‘Declare It Openly If 2027 Will Be Uncontested’ — Inibehe Slams INEC Over ADC Crisis

Published by Samuel Ayomide on April 2nd, 2026.

Human rights lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, has sharply criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its handling of the leadership dispute within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), warning that recent developments could undermine confidence in Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

In a strongly worded reaction that has gained traction across social media platforms, Effiong suggested that the electoral body’s actions raise concerns about the possibility of a compromised democratic process. As reported by Sahara Reporters, the lawyer questioned whether there was a deliberate attempt to weaken opposition platforms ahead of the next presidential race.

Effiong’s remarks come amid controversy surrounding INEC’s reported derecognition of a faction of the ADC led by former Senate President David Mark. According to Premium Times, the crisis stems from internal disagreements following the resignation of key party executives, which paved the way for a new leadership structure.

Providing his interpretation of events, Effiong argued that the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) retains the authority to determine its leadership. He noted that the ADC leadership transition had been ratified internally, raising questions about the basis for external interference.

“Is dispute over party leadership no longer an internal affair?” he queried, maintaining that such matters have traditionally been treated as forum domesticum: issues best resolved within party structures.

The controversy also involves a legal challenge by a party member, Nafiu Gombe, who insists he should have assumed leadership as Deputy National Chairman. However, Effiong questioned the legal standing of the claim, asking whether a court could impose leadership on a political party against its internal decisions, a concern also highlighted in analysis by The Cable.

He further referenced a Court of Appeal directive for parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum—the state of affairs before the suit was filed—arguing that this raises important questions about who legitimately held leadership at that time.

Taking a swipe at INEC, Effiong accused the commission of potentially enabling a political environment that could discourage credible competition. “If it is the intention of INEC to have President Bola Tinubu run unopposed in 2027, it should be clearly stated,” he said, in comments echoed by Daily Trust.

He warned that any perception of bias or manipulation could erode public trust in the electoral system and render the democratic process ineffective.

Political observers say the unfolding situation within the ADC, alongside broader tensions within opposition parties, may significantly shape the dynamics of the 2027 elections, particularly as alliances and realignments continue to emerge across the political landscape.