Heavy Security at INEC Headquarters Amid Deepening ADC Crisis

There was a heavy deployment of security personnel at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja on Thursday, as tensions escalated over the ongoing leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Security operatives were stationed at all entry and exit points of the commission’s Maitama office, effectively restricting movement around the premises. The personnel were drawn from the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

Although officials have yet to provide full details, sources linked the heightened security presence to INEC’s recent decision to remove former Senate President, David Mark, and ex-Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola, from its official portal as the party’s National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively.

The development reportedly triggered outrage within the ADC, with party leaders accusing the electoral body of overreach and what they described as “impunity.” Plans by opposition figures, including members of the ADC and the Obidient Movement, to stage a gathering at the commission’s headquarters were also cited as a factor behind the security clampdown.

INEC has since reaffirmed its stance, maintaining that it will no longer recognise the affected party officials. The commission also declined to acknowledge Nafiu Bala Gombe, who is seeking to assume leadership of the party through the courts.

In addition, the electoral body stated that it would not monitor any conventions or congresses organised by the faction linked to the delisted officials pending the resolution of the dispute.

INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, reiterated the commission’s neutrality, urging political actors to avoid actions capable of undermining preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The crisis, rooted in conflicting interpretations of a Court of Appeal ruling, has further deepened divisions within the ADC, with multiple factions laying claim to the party’s leadership.

Reacting to the development, the party rejected INEC’s position, accusing the commission of acting under external influence. In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC alleged attempts to weaken opposition parties and impose a one-party system.

The party described INEC’s actions as inconsistent and vowed to respond after reviewing all available legal and political options.