ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The factional leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Tanimu Turaki on Thursday slammed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), over its recent decision on the African Democratic Congress (ADC), warning that the move signals growing bias against opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a strongly worded statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the Turaki-led National Working Committee accused INEC of taking actions capable of undermining Nigeria’s democratic process while escalating political tension nationwide.
The PDP faction said recent developments point to what it described as “orchestrated manipulations” targeting opposition parties, noting that the political atmosphere has been pushed to a near “fever level.”
“Society, like the human body, either breaks down or adjusts when subjected to fever,” the statement read, warning of potential consequences if the situation persists.
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The party further alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress was determined to retain power in 2027 “by hook or by crook,” even if it meant undermining democratic institutions.
“It is now widely believed that the APC intends to win the next presidential election at all costs,” the statement added.
“No boundary appears respected, and nothing is considered too costly, including derailing democracy and undermining Nigeria’s stability.”
The Turaki-led PDP accused key national institutions including the Independent National Electoral Commission, the judiciary, and even religious bodies of being drawn into what it called a broader political agenda.
Particular concern was raised over INEC’s decision to derecognise the David Mark-led National Working Committee of the African Democratic Congress, a move the party said has further heightened suspicion of bias.
While acknowledging that legal interpretations may differ, the PDP faction argued that INEC’s pattern of decisions in political disputes increasingly reinforces fears of a predetermined electoral outcome.
“In such circumstances, suspicions of ulterior motives are inevitable,” it said.
The party also expressed worry over INEC’s ongoing monitoring of political parties, warning that such actions could eventually lead to the deregistration of opposition platforms a development it said would weaken Nigeria’s democracy.
Calling for restraint, the PDP urged INEC and other institutions to resist political pressure and act in the interest of national stability.
“This is a critical moment in our democratic journey,” the statement noted. “No individual or institution should overstretch the patience of Nigerians.”
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The crisis stems from INEC’s announcement on Wednesday delisting key figures of the ADC, including its National Chairman, David Mark, and National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, citing compliance with a court order directing it to maintain the status quo pending the outcome of ongoing litigation.
The ADC has been embroiled in a prolonged leadership tussle since 2025, following disputes over the tenure of former chairman Ralph Nwosu and the emergence of a new leadership under Mark.
The situation has since degenerated into multiple court battles, raising concerns about the party’s readiness for the 2027 general elections.
Meanwhile, ADC leaders, including Mark and its spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi, have accused the APC and President Bola Tinubu of being behind the crisis an allegation the ruling party has repeatedly denied.