INEC Dismisses Calls to Deregister ADC Amid Political Tensions

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected moves seeking the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), insisting that the request lacks constitutional and legal backing.

The development has sparked renewed debate within Nigeria’s political space, with many observers describing the decision as a major test of the electoral body’s independence under the leadership of INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan.

According to court documents and statements referenced by multiple local media outlets, INEC argued that the application seeking the ADC’s deregistration failed to satisfy the legal conditions required for such action under Nigerian law. The commission maintained that deregistration powers are strictly guided by constitutional provisions and cannot be exercised based on political pressure or internal disputes within parties.

INEC stated that the ADC had not violated any of the recognised grounds that could warrant deregistration, including failure to meet electoral performance benchmarks or breaches of registration requirements.

“The power to deregister political parties is neither discretionary nor subject to political pressure, but strictly governed by extant laws and constitutional provisions,” the commission reportedly stated in its filing.

The decision has been interpreted by political analysts as a move aimed at preserving Nigeria’s multi-party democracy, especially amid increasing political tensions ahead of future elections.

Supporters of Prof. Amupitan’s ongoing electoral reforms say the commission’s stance reinforces public confidence in INEC’s commitment to constitutional order, neutrality and due process. The issue comes amid wider controversies involving leadership disputes within the ADC and accusations by some opposition figures that the electoral body was interfering in party affairs.

INEC, however, has repeatedly denied allegations of bias and insisted that all its actions are guided by court rulings and constitutional responsibilities. The commission has also rejected calls for the removal of its chairman, describing such demands as attempts to undermine its independence.

Meanwhile, a related suit seeking the deregistration of ADC and several other political parties remains before a Federal High Court in Abuja, where proceedings are ongoing.