By Anayo Akwitti
The Coalition for Protection of Democracy (COPDEM), a key stakeholder of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) strongly condemns the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remove the names of the ADC National Working Committee (NWC), led by Senator David Mark, from its official portal.
The Coalition in a statement signed by its Spokesman Professor Danjuma Saleh on Saturday said it views the action as a direct assault on democratic inclusion and a troubling attempt to undermine the growing support base of the ADC.
It stated that ;”Far from being a mere administrative issue, it raises serious concerns about institutional neutrality and the misuse of regulatory authority”
COPDEM said it is particularly alarmed by INEC’s interpretation of the Court of Appeal’s directive to maintain the status quo.
“The removal of a duly recognized leadership clearly contradicts that order and creates avoidable uncertainty within the party structure”
COPDEM described as deeply concerning a situation where a ruling party that commands significant political control across the country appears apprehensive of fair democratic contestation.
It further asserted that; “If INEC’s actions are intended to pave the way for an uncontested presidential race in 2027, the Commission owes Nigerians a clear and public explanation”.
It demanded amongst other things the immediate reinstatement of the Senator David Mark-led NWC on INEC’s official portal,recognition of the ADC leadership as affirmed by the party’s NEC meeting of July 29, 2025 and an end to all forms of interference capable of destabilizing the ADC at both state and national levels.
COPDEM reaffirmed its commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law and called on INEC to act transparently and uphold its constitutional responsibility as an impartial electoral body.
It added that failure to reverse the decision promptly may compel peaceful and lawful civic action across the country to defend democratic integrity.
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