Former INEC Director Uzzi Faults Commission Over ADC Leadership Dispute

A former Director of Voter Education and Publicity at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Osaze Uzzi, has openly disagreed with the electoral body’s recent position regarding the leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Uzzi, a respected voice in Nigeria’s electoral process, expressed concerns over INEC’s conclusions, suggesting that the commission may not have fully considered critical legal and procedural issues surrounding the dispute.

The ADC has recently been embroiled in an internal leadership tussle, with rival factions laying claim to the party’s structure and legitimacy. INEC’s stance on the matter, which is expected to guide recognition of party leadership, has sparked debate among political stakeholders.

Reacting to the development, Uzzi maintained that while INEC has constitutional authority to regulate political parties, its interpretation in this case may be flawed. He emphasized the need for strict adherence to party constitutions and due process in resolving internal disputes.

According to him, leadership conflicts within political parties should primarily be settled internally or through the courts rather than through administrative conclusions that may appear to favour one faction over another.

Political analysts say Uzzi’s remarks could intensify scrutiny on INEC’s role in party affairs, especially as Nigeria gradually moves toward the next electoral cycle. The situation within the ADC also raises broader concerns about internal democracy and party stability in the country.

As of the time of filing this report, INEC has not issued any fresh response to Uzzi’s comments.