The Action Democratic Party (ADP) has blamed Nigeria’s constitution, rather than the Independent National Electoral Commission, for the country’s persistent electoral challenges, calling for urgent constitutional reforms to strengthen the independence of electoral institutions.
Speaking at the party’s National Executive Committee meeting and INEC verification exercise in Abuja, ADP National Chairman Yabaji Sani said criticisms accusing INEC of bias were misplaced, stressing that the commission merely operates within the framework created by the constitution.
Sani argued that the current system allows excessive executive influence, particularly in the appointment of electoral officials, and warned that such powers could be abused by any leader, including President Bola Tinubu, if left unchecked.
He also emphasised that the ADP prioritises competence over zoning, ethnicity, or religion in candidate selection, noting that the party is focused on delivering effective governance and democratic dividends rather than promoting sectional interests.
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Sani said the party would adopt a consensus-based approach for its primaries, expressing confidence in ADP’s chances while criticising the current administration for alleged nepotism and pledging inclusive governance and solutions to Nigeria’s economic and security challenges.
