By Emmanuella Oghenetega
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has announced that the inauguration of its newly elected State Executives and Chairmen will take place on May 12, 2026.
In a statement from its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party congratulated the newly elected officials for the peaceful and successful conduct of their state congresses, describing the process as a clear reflection of the ADC’s dedication to internal democracy, transparency, and adherence to the rule of law.
The ADC emphasized that the elections were conducted in full compliance with its constitution and relevant legal frameworks, praising members and stakeholders for their maturity, discipline, and orderly conduct throughout the process. While the inauguration is scheduled for May 12, 2026, the National Working Committee may announce a new date if necessary.
The party urged the newly elected officials to remain true to the party’s values and collaborate with the leadership of National Chairman, David Mark, in strengthening the ADC’s national presence. The statement highlighted the need for unity, discipline, and dedication as the party works toward establishing a credible political alternative for Nigerians.
The ADC expressed confidence that under the leadership of the new state executives, the party will continue to expand its structure and deepen its engagement with citizens across the country.
Despite a warning from Professor Joash Amupitan, National Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), against continuing with its congresses and convention due to potential violations of existing court orders, the ADC reaffirmed its decision to proceed with the events.
Responding through its National Publicity Secretary, the party described INEC’s position as a distortion of the Court of Appeal’s directive to maintain the status quo regarding the party’s internal issues, accusing the Commission of contempt of court.
The ADC criticized INEC for overstepping its role and attempting to halt the party’s lawful activities, asserting that internal disputes should not interrupt democratic processes. The party further emphasized that its actions were fully in line with legal provisions.
The ADC found it necessary to respond to INEC’s statements, clarifying that the Commission’s stance misrepresented both the legal and factual aspects of the situation. The party noted that while INEC sought to position itself as neutral, its actions seemed to undermine opposition parties’ ability to function and organize freely.
Rather than questioning the form of multi-party democracy in Nigeria, the ADC expressed concern over actions that could weaken it. The party argued that INEC’s reliance on the mere existence of multiple parties as evidence of neutrality did not address the issues at hand.
