INEC de-lists David Mark led ADC NWC

...declines Nafiu's faction request to be officially recognised 

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced its resolve to remove the names of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), led by Senator David Mark, from its official portal. 

This decision follows a directive from the Court of Appeal intended to maintain the status quo ante bellum amid a protracted leadership dispute between rival factions.

According to a statement released by the commission on Wednesday, the appellate court’s judgment, delivered on March 12, 2026, instructed all parties to refrain from actions that could prejudice the outcome of the substantive suit currently before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

INEC clarified that while the names of the Mark-led NWC were uploaded on September 9, 2025, that action occurred seven days after the legal challenge had already been instituted. 

The commission noted that it is reverting the portal to its prior state to avoid foisting a fait accompli on the judiciary.

The electoral body also declined a request from the rival faction led by Nafiu Bala Gombe to be recognized as the acting leadership. 

INEC emphasized that granting such recognition would equally violate the court’s order to preserve the original situation of the parties before the conflict escalated.

The commission also announced the suspension of all official engagements with any faction of the ADC. 

The electoral body concluded by reiterating its commitment to upholding the rule of law and urged political actors to resolve internal crises through the proper legal channels to ensure stable preparations for the 2027 general elections.