The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has received backing from the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) over its decision to derecognise the David Mark-led National Executive Committee of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The position of the civil society body follows a Court of Appeal judgment delivered on March 12, 2026, which dismissed the appeal filed by the faction led by former Senate President, Senator David Mark.
In a statement, NCSCN Executive Director, Blessing Akinlosotu, said INEC’s action was not an act of victimisation but a direct compliance with the appellate court’s directive to revert to the status quo as of September 2, 2025.
He argued that political parties must understand the extent of INEC’s regulatory authority under Section 228 of the 1999 Constitution and Sections 82(4) and 83 of the Electoral Act 2026, which empower the Commission to enforce internal democracy and ensure compliance with electoral laws.
Akinlosotu further described the faction’s legal approach as a “strategic blunder,” noting that the decision to challenge jurisdiction at the appellate stage rather than addressing the substantive issues at trial level contributed to its setback, rather than any fault of INEC.
He also cautioned against what he described as attempts to mobilise civil society organisations for protests against the Commission, warning against the “weaponisation” of CSOs for political purposes.
Reaffirming support for INEC, the NCSCN issued a vote of confidence in the electoral body and its leadership, insisting that the Commission has demonstrated commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process.
He said calls for the resignation of the INEC Chairman were unpatriotic and unjustified, stressing that the Commission has remained focused on electoral reforms and the conduct of credible elections.
“As a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and a distinguished Professor of Law, Prof. Amupitan has brought a ‘rule of law’ first approach to the Commission. His refusal to bow to political pressure in the ADC matter is proof of his commitment to judicial sanctity,” he said.
Akinlosotu added that reforms such as the deployment of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) have significantly improved transparency in elections, reducing incidents of manipulation and ballot snatching.
He also pointed to the recent Anambra governorship election and the FCT Area Council polls as examples of progress under the current electoral leadership.
According to him, the focus on curbing vote trading reflects a more robust electoral system, while insisting that INEC leadership should be allowed to continue its work without political interference.
He maintained that any attack on INEC for obeying court orders amounts to an attack on the judiciary, urging stakeholders to respect the rule of law and democratic institutions.
