Leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benue State have condemned the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) decision to withdraw recognition of the party’s leadership under Senator David Mark, describing the action as “unacceptable and politically motivated.”
The party’s stakeholders, meeting in Otukpo on Thursday, April 2, 2026, accused INEC of bias, alleging that the commission is collaborating with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to weaken opposition parties and promote a de facto one-party system. They pledged to challenge the decision through lawful channels while proceeding with their planned convention.
At the gathering, former Speaker Pro-tem of the House of Representatives, Terngu Tsegba, claimed that INEC’s action aims to curb the ADC’s rising popularity nationwide. He said the party has recently seen a surge in membership, reflecting growing dissatisfaction with the APC, and stressed that no interference would prevent ADC from participating in the 2027 general elections.
Helen Onma Mark, wife of the ADC National Chairman, urged members to remain calm and patient, assuring them that the party leadership in Abuja is actively addressing the situation. “Their evil plan will not stand. Our National Chairman and other key leaders are taking action in Abuja. Don’t be disturbed—this will not succeed,” she said.
Governorship aspirants Dr. Peter Adejo and Joseph Waya echoed the sentiment, interpreting INEC’s move as a sign of the ruling party’s fear ahead of the 2027 polls. House of Representatives aspirants, including Solomon Eigege, Akpoda, Innocent Omudu, and Adoyi Ojogbane, also affirmed that their political plans remain on track, promising intensified mobilisation across the state.
Sir John Ngbede encouraged members to sustain grassroots engagement in preparation for upcoming party congresses. Former lawmaker Samson Okwu dismissed the INEC action as trivial, likening it to an “April Fool,” and argued that APC’s dominance has not quelled concerns about ADC’s growing influence.
Senatorial hopeful David Olofu warned against any attempt to undermine democracy, stating that Nigerians would resist efforts to reverse democratic gains. Delivering a message on behalf of Senator David Mark, Peter Ede reaffirmed that the party’s leadership remains intact, with Mark still recognised as ADC National Chairman despite INEC’s position.
The meeting concluded with party members expressing determination to remain united and focused, insisting that nothing will derail their progress as they prepare for the 2027 elections.
