Turaki-led PDP slams INEC, alleges bias in ADC crisis

On Thursday in Nigeria, a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party led by Tanimu Turaki criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission over its recent action affecting the African Democratic Congress, accusing the commission of acting in a way that appears unfair to opposition groups.

The reaction followed INEC’s decision to remove the leadership of the ADC’s National Working Committee headed by David Mark from its official records in line with a court directive. The development has added to the ongoing crisis within the party, where different factions are contesting control.

In a statement released by the faction’s spokesman, Ini Ememobong, the group said the situation could raise tension in the country as political activities build toward the 2027 general elections. The faction also warned that repeated actions of this nature may weaken trust in the electoral system.

The group claimed that recent political developments have created the impression that opposition parties are being placed at a disadvantage, with concerns that public institutions may be drawn into political disputes. It noted that although INEC has the authority to monitor political parties, the timing and manner of its decisions have raised questions among observers.

The faction added that there are growing fears that ongoing actions by the electoral body could affect the strength of opposition parties if not properly managed, especially with discussions around possible deregistration and internal disputes within parties.

The crisis in the ADC dates back to 2025 when disagreements over leadership led to the emergence of a new executive under David Mark, which was opposed by other members. The dispute later moved to the courts, creating uncertainty over the party’s structure.

While members of the ADC, including Bolaji Abdullahi, have accused the ruling All Progressives Congress and Bola Ahmed Tinubu of influencing events within the party, the APC, through its spokesman Felix Morka, rejected the claims and maintained that INEC acted based on a valid court order.

The PDP faction urged national institutions to act independently and handle political matters in a way that will support stability and public confidence as the country prepares for future elections.