The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is facing fresh hurdles ahead of 2027 general elections following a declaration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that the party is yet to comply with the requirements for the formal recognition of Senator David Mark and former Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola, as its National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively.
INEC explained that until the necessary procedures are completed, all official documents and communications bearing their signatures remain null and void.
Speaking to journalists, INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, through his Chief Press Secretary, Rotimi Oyekanmi, said: “Ask ADC if they have truly complied with all the requirements.
They visited the Commission recently, and we told them what the problem was. They are aware. Please get in touch with Bolaji Abdullahi, their spokesperson, who was part of the delegation.
He ought to have briefed journalists about their visit and what transpired.” On the implications for ADC candidates in upcoming elections, Oyekanmi added: “I believe the party will comply with extant rules. Once they do, they won’t have any problem.”
Although INEC did not specify the pending requirements, reports indicate that ADC is expected to submit specimen signatures of the National Chairman and Secretary, alongside other constitutional documentation.
INEC regulations mandate political parties to provide resolutions, verified signatures of authorised officials, and evidence of constitutional compliance before any leadership change is recognised. Reacting, ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, described the delay as “largely administrative,” confirming that the party had already made its submissions to INEC.
“We have had clarity now, and we made the required submission to INEC last Thursday. We are hopeful that everything will be resolved in the coming week,” he said. The ADC has, however, accused unnamed political interests of attempting to frustrate its growth ahead of the 2027 general elections and other off-cycle polls.
