Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has come under criticism from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over its interpretation of a Court of Appeal directive, as the party insists it will proceed with its planned congresses and national convention.
INEC maintained that the court’s order to preserve the status quo requires the ADC to suspend its internal activities pending the resolution of ongoing litigation. The commission expressed concern that proceeding with such processes could complicate legal proceedings and potentially create uncertainties.
However, the ADC rejected this position, describing it as a misinterpretation of the court’s directive. In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party argued that the order does not restrict its internal operations.
According to the ADC, a preservation order is meant to prevent actions that could irreversibly affect the subject of a case, not to halt the routine functioning of a political party.
The party further stressed that only the courts—not INEC—have the authority to determine the scope and implications of such orders.
The ADC also dismissed concerns that its planned congresses could interfere with ongoing litigation, maintaining that its activities remain lawful in the absence of any explicit court injunction stopping them.
On the issue of internal disagreements within the party, the ADC noted that such disputes are common in political organisations and should not warrant external interference. It urged INEC to remain neutral and allow due legal processes to take their course.
While INEC defended its position as a precautionary measure aimed at avoiding future legal complications, the ADC argued that such caution should not come at the expense of constitutionally guaranteed rights.
Reaffirming its position, the party declared that it would go ahead with its scheduled congresses and convention in line with the law, while calling on INEC to stay within the bounds of its constitutional responsibilities.
