‘INEC Should Have Recognised Nafiu Bala’, Wike Speaks on ADC Leadership Crisis

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its handling of the leadership crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress (ADC), stating that the commission should have recognised Senator David Mark’s opponent, Nafiu Bala Gombe, as the party’s national chairman instead of creating a vacuum.

Wike made this known during his monthly media chat in Abuja on Friday, where he addressed the ongoing dispute within the Opposition coalition party, ADC. He, however, noted that the party should be relieved that INEC had chosen not to recognise any faction until the matter is resolved in court.

His comments come in response to INEC’s recent decision to remove the names of former Senate President David Mark and former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola from its official portal as National Chairman and National Secretary of the ADC, respectively. The electoral body also declined to recognise Bala Gombe, who is seeking to be declared chairman through legal action.

INEC further announced the suspension of recognition for all factions within the party, stating that it would not monitor any conventions or congresses organised by the rival groups until the substantive suit before the Federal High Court was determined.

Reacting to the development, Wike said INEC ought to have acknowledged Nafiu Bala Gombe as ADC chairman following the Appeal Court’s judgement but maintained that the commission’s neutral stance could ultimately benefit the party.

“In my view, INEC should have recognised Bala Gombe as the ADC National Chairman based on the judgement,” Wike said. “However, the party should be satisfied that INEC has decided not to recognise any faction until the court resolves the matter.”

Meanwhile, the ADC has accused INEC of breaching legal provisions and taking sides in the leadership tussle.