The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called for the immediate resignation or removal of the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joseph Amupitan, accusing him of partisanship, constitutional violations, and actions it claims threaten Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.
The demand was made on Wednesday at INEC headquarters in Abuja, where party leaders and supporters gathered for a protest.
What initially began as an internal leadership dispute within the ADC in September has now escalated into a broader political confrontation, raising concerns about the neutrality of the electoral body ahead of the 2027 elections.
The party’s position was conveyed by its National Chairman, David Mark, and National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola. Both accused the INEC chairman of exceeding his constitutional role and aligning with factional interests within the party.
“Your recent media interview was not only disgraceful and unbecoming of the high office you occupy, but it also exposed a troubling willingness to descend into partisan controversy,” the party stated.
At the centre of the dispute is what the ADC describes as an attempt by the INEC chairman to publicly interpret court rulings, an action the party insists is solely the responsibility of the judiciary.
“The interpretation of court judgments is the exclusive preserve of the judiciary. For the Chairman of INEC to publicly assume that role… amounts to a serious constitutional breach,” the statement read.
The ADC further alleged that recent actions by INEC, including its communications with the party, have deepened fears that the Commission may no longer be acting as a neutral umpire.
“This is not only improper; it is dangerous for the credibility of our electoral system,” the party warned, adding that such actions risk undermining democratic pluralism by interfering in the internal affairs of political parties.
The party is demanding that the INEC chairman step down immediately or be removed by the appropriate constitutional authorities. It also called on the Commission to withdraw what it described as “offensive correspondence,” issue a formal apology, and commit to non-interference in party affairs.
“INEC is not a court of law. It is not an advocate. It has no mandate to interpret judgments to suit a preferred narrative,” the ADC added.
To back its claims, the party cited internal processes carried out in 2025, including National Executive Committee meetings that led to the emergence of its current leadership under David Mark. It said these processes were transparent, attended by INEC officials, and initially recognised by the Commission.
The ADC also claimed that INEC had previously affirmed the legitimacy of these processes in a sworn affidavit before the Federal High Court but alleged that attempts are now being made to reverse that position.
“We are aware of efforts being made to recant their testimonies which contradict the agenda that you have decided to pursue. This is indeed unconscionable,” the party stated.
While acknowledging the contributions of other officials within INEC, the ADC argued that the chairman’s actions have damaged the Commission’s reputation and eroded public trust.
The party warned that failure to meet its demands could lead to legal action and coordinated civic mobilisation, stressing that Nigeria’s democratic integrity must be protected.
ADC’s Demands
- Immediate resignation of the INEC chairman or his removal by appropriate constitutional authorities
- Withdrawal of INEC’s correspondence to the ADC described as “offensive”
- Formal apology from INEC to the ADC
- Commitment by INEC to refrain from interference in the internal affairs of political parties
What you should know
The ADC has called for the resignation or removal of INEC Chairman Joseph Amupitan, accusing him of partisanship and constitutional breaches.
The dispute, which began as an internal party crisis, has escalated into a broader political conflict, raising concerns about electoral neutrality ahead of the 2027 elections.
