ADC Leaders Reject INEC Decision, Vow to Resist, Mobilise Support in Otukpo

The leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benue State has strongly rejected the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to derecognise the party’s leadership under David Mark, describing the move as politically motivated and a threat to Nigeria’s democratic process.

Addressing a large gathering of party supporters in Otukpo on Thursday, April 2, 2026, ADC leaders accused INEC of acting as a “partial umpire” allegedly working in collaboration with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to impose a one-party system in the country.

They declared their determination to challenge the commission’s decision through lawful means while proceeding with their planned party convention without interruption.

Former Speaker Pro-Tempore of the House of Representatives, Terngu Tsegba, alleged that INEC’s action was influenced by the federal government in a bid to weaken opposition forces. He insisted that no amount of pressure or political maneuvering would prevent the ADC from participating in the 2027 general elections.

Tsegba further claimed that the decision stemmed from growing apprehension within the ruling party over ADC’s increasing popularity nationwide.

According to him, the party has witnessed a surge in membership in recent days, reflecting widespread public dissatisfaction with the current administration.

“The fear of electoral defeat is pushing those in power to manipulate institutions,” he said, adding that party leaders were already taking steps to reverse what he described as a “midnight decision.”

Also speaking at the rally, Mrs. Helen Onma Mark, wife of the ADC National Chairman, reassured members that the party’s national leadership was actively addressing the situation in Abuja. She urged supporters not to lose hope, insisting that the move by INEC would ultimately fail.

“Their plan will not stand. Our leaders are already taking action, and there is no cause for alarm,” she told the cheering crowd.

Governorship aspirants, Peter Adejo and Joseph Waya, also condemned INEC’s action, describing it as a sign of panic by the ruling party ahead of the 2027 elections.

They alleged a coordinated attempt between INEC and the APC to undermine democratic competition.

Similarly, House of Representatives aspirants, including Solomon Eigege, Innocent Omudu, and Adoyi Ojogbane, vowed to intensify grassroots mobilisation, insisting that the party remained focused on unseating the current government.

Party chieftain, John Ngbede, urged members to remain steadfast and return to their respective local government areas to strengthen the party’s base ahead of upcoming congresses.

In the same vein, former lawmaker representing Oju/Obi Federal Constituency, Samson Okwu, dismissed the development as inconsequential, likening it to an “April Fool,” and argued that despite controlling several states, the APC was unsettled by ADC’s rising influence.

A senatorial hopeful, David Olofu, cautioned against any attempt to undermine democracy, warning that Nigerians would resist efforts to reverse democratic gains.

Delivering a message on behalf of Senator David Mark, Peter Ede maintained that the status quo remained unchanged, affirming that Mark was still the party’s national chairman.

He questioned INEC’s neutrality, describing the commission’s action as troubling.

The rally concluded with a strong show of unity, as party faithful pledged to remain committed to the ADC’s cause, expressing confidence that no obstacle would derail what they described as a “moving train” heading toward victory in 2027.