Isaac Samuel
Security agencies on Thursday took over the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Maitama, Abuja, as a planned protest over the leadership crisis in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) failed to materialise.
Soldiers, police officers and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) were deployed in large numbers around the commission’s premises, with security vehicles positioned at strategic points and access roads effectively barricaded.
The heavy deployment followed widespread mobilisation for a protest tagged “Occupy INEC,” which had been promoted through banners and messages circulating among members of the ADC, the Obidient Movement and other groups.
Despite the build-up, there was no sign of the planned demonstration on Thursday, as those expected to converge on the commission’s headquarters stayed away, apparently deterred by the overwhelming presence of security personnel.
However, sources indicated that shortly after INEC announced its decision on Wednesday, over 2,000 Nigerians had gathered around the commission’s headquarters in reaction to the development.
INEC had, on Wednesday, de-listed the National Working Committee (NWC) of the ADC from its official portal, effectively suspending recognition of the party’s leadership amid a deepening internal crisis.
The commission specifically removed the names of former Senate President David Mark and ex-Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as National Chairman and National Secretary of the party, respectively.
It also stated that it would not recognise Nafiu Bala Gombe, who is seeking to be declared national chairman through the courts.
INEC further announced that it would suspend recognition of all factions within the party and refrain from monitoring any conventions or congresses organised by the contending groups pending the resolution of the dispute.
The electoral body said the decision would remain in force until the final determination of a substantive suit before the Federal High Court.
The ADC leadership crisis has been further complicated by a recent judgment of the Court of Appeal in Suit No. CA/ABJ/145/2026, intensifying the struggle for control of the party.
In a statement, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mallam Mohammed Kudu Haruna, said the commission remains committed to neutrality.
He urged political actors to avoid actions capable of undermining democratic processes, particularly as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
INEC also disclosed that it had received a letter dated March 16, 2026, from Suleiman Usman (SAN) & Co, warning against recognising Nafiu Bala Gombe as acting national chairman while the matter remains before the court.
It added that a separate “Demand for Enforcement” from Summit Law Chambers, representing Gombe, had urged the commission to remove Mark and Aregbesola from its records and cease all engagements with them.
According to INEC, the conflicting legal demands from the rival factions necessitated its decision to suspend all official dealings with the party until the courts provide clarity on its authentic leadership.
