ADC supporters protest in Jigawa, ask INEC to recognise Mark

Members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Jigawa State staged a peaceful protest at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Dutse, voicing their demand for the recognition of their national leadership under David Mark. The demonstration underscores the intensifying political landscape in Nigeria, marked by defections and leadership disputes ahead of crucial primary elections and national polls.

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INEC does not have the constitutional power to interpret court rulings. That responsibility lies with the judiciary.

The protesting ADC members submitted a petition to INEC, alleging that the commission has violated democratic principles and displayed institutional bias in its handling of the party's internal affairs. A key argument presented by the Jigawa ADC Youth Leader, Manniru Aminu, is that INEC lacks the constitutional authority to interpret court rulings, a power that he asserts rests solely with the judiciary. The group views INEC's actions as a direct threat to democratic governance and its commitment to political neutrality.

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The group demanded the immediate restoration of the recognised ADC leadership on INEC’s official portal.

This protest highlights a broader concern within Nigeria's political system regarding the role of electoral bodies in resolving party leadership disputes. The ADC members are demanding the immediate reinstatement of their recognized leadership on INEC's official portal, a public apology from the commission's leadership, and accountability for what they deem unconstitutional actions. The Administrative Secretary of INEC in Jigawa State assured the protesters that their complaints would be forwarded to the national headquarters, though he declined further comment. The situation reflects the ongoing challenges in ensuring transparency and fairness in Nigeria's electoral processes.

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He assured all that their complaints would be forwarded to the national headquarters for consideration.