By Olawale Ogunbusola

 

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced its decision to maintain the status quo on the leadership dispute within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), refusing to recognize either faction pending the outcome of a court case.

In a press release on Wednesday, INEC cited the Court of Appeal’s order to maintain the status quo ante bellum, meaning the situation before the case was filed on September 2, 2025.

The dispute involves Senator David Mark’s group and Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe, who both claim to be the rightful leader of the party.

Meanwhile, INEC has removed the names of Senator David Mark’s group from its portal and will not monitor any meetings or conventions convened by either group until the matter is resolved.

The commission reiterated its commitment to neutrality and compliance with judicial orders, urging stakeholders to conduct themselves accordingly.