By Victor Okoye
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Diaspora Chapter, USA, has expressed concern over the removal of its National Working Committee (NWC) led by David Mark from the portal of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The group said the development could affect party administration, especially as the matter is subject to ongoing litigation.
This is contained in a statement signed by Hon. Safiyanu Ali (Maibiyar), ADC Diaspora Chairman (USA), and Hon. Adeolu Balogun, Secretary of the chapter.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that INEC had announced plans to remove the David Mark-led NWC from its portal and suspend dealings with any faction of the party pending the determination of a substantive suit before the Federal High Court, Abuja.
INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Mr Mohammed Haruna, said the decision followed a review of relevant court rulings.
“The court directed parties to maintain the status quo in the leadership dispute within the ADC,” Haruna said.
He added that the action was in compliance with the judgment of the Court of Appeal in Appeal No. CA/ABJ/145/2026: Senator David Mark v. Nafiu Bala Gombe & Ors., as well as the pending case before the Federal High Court.
According to him, INEC also received separate letters dated March 16 from two law firms representing different interests within the party.
Reacting, the ADC diaspora said: “Actions taken during a legal dispute may raise concerns about due process and institutional independence”.
It added that “transparency and adherence to established procedures” were essential in the management of party affairs.
The group urged stakeholders to remain committed to democratic principles and the rule of law.
It also called on national leaders, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Ibrahim Babangida, Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, and Aliyu Gusau, to support efforts to strengthen democratic institutions.
The group further encouraged citizens to remain law-abiding and actively engaged in the democratic process.
It urged the National Assembly to sustain its oversight functions in line with its constitutional mandate.
The ADC diaspora also called on the international community, including the United Nations, to observe developments in Nigeria’s democratic space.
It said it would continue to explore lawful channels to address concerns relating to party leadership and institutional processes. (NAN)
Edited by Tosin Kolade
