ADC Leaders Reject INEC Decision, Mobilise Support in Otukpo Ahead of 2027

The leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benue State last Thursday (April 2, 2026) strongly condemned the decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to derecognise the party leadership led by Senator David Mark.

They described INEC as a biased umpire allegedly working in collaboration with the ruling party to establish a one-party system in the country. The leaders stressed that they would explore all lawful means to resist what they termed INEC’s “mischief” and proceed with their planned convention without hesitation.
Former Speaker Pro-Tempore of the House of Representatives, Terngu Tsegba, alleged that INEC was acting in concert with the current government to weaken opposition parties. He maintained that no level of manipulation by the electoral body or the ruling government would prevent the ADC from appearing on the ballot in the 2027 elections.
Tsegba further claimed that INEC’s action was driven by fear due to the growing popularity of the ADC nationwide. According to him, the party has witnessed a surge in membership in recent days, reflecting increasing public dissatisfaction with the APC-led government.

He also alleged that the fear of electoral defeat had prompted those in power to influence INEC’s decision, adding that party leaders were already taking steps to reverse what he described as a “midnight decision.”
The wife of the ADC National Chairman, Chief (Mrs.) Helen Onma Mark, urged party members not to lose hope over the development. She assured them that the national leadership was actively addressing the situation.
“Their evil plan will not stand. Our National Chairman and other prominent leaders are already taking action in Abuja. That is why he is not here with us at the moment. Do not be disturbed, as this will not stand,” she said.
Two governorship aspirants, Dr. Peter Adejo and Joseph Waya, also condemned INEC’s decision, telling the large crowd that the alleged collaboration between INEC and the ruling All Progressives Congress was a sign of looming defeat for those in power.
House of Representatives hopefuls, including Solomon Eigege, Akpoda, Innocent Omudu, and Adoyi Ojogbane, stated that the development would not discourage them from intensifying mobilisation efforts ahead of the 2027 elections. They expressed confidence in defeating the current administration.
Sir John Ngbede encouraged party members to remain steadfast and return to their local government areas to strengthen grassroots mobilisation ahead of upcoming party congresses.
Former member of the House of Representatives for Oju/Obi Federal Constituency, Samson Okwu, echoed similar sentiments, describing the situation as an “April Fool” and insisting that despite the APC’s dominance in several states, the ruling party remains uneasy about the ADC’s rising influence.
David Olofu, a senatorial aspirant, warned against any actions that could undermine democracy, stressing that Nigerians would not accept a return to what he metaphorically described as “the days of five leprous hands.”
Delivering a message on behalf of Senator David Mark, Peter Ede insisted that the status quo remains unchanged, affirming that Mark is still the party’s National Chairman. He added that INEC’s action raises serious concerns about its neutrality.
The gathering concluded on a strong note of determination, with party members pledging to remain committed, confident that nothing can stop what they repeatedly described as a “moving train” heading toward the 2027 elections.