INEC Explains Decision To Derecognize David Mark, Aregbesola, Others As ADC NWC Members

The nation’s electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Wednesday explained reasons why it took the decision to remove the names of members of the National Working Committee of the African Democratic Congress headed by retired General David Mark from its official portal.

The electoral body noted that this was done in compliance with a court order.

Team@orientactualmags.com learned that INEC disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday while adding that it will maintain the status quo ante bellum pending the determination of a substantive suit before the Federal High Court, Abuja.

Recall that there are two factions in the ADC with Nafiu Bala Gombe and David Mark laying claim to the chairmanship position.

The Court of Appeal in a judgment delivered on March 12, 2026, had directed all parties to maintain the existing situation before the dispute arose and refrain from actions that can prejudice the outcome of the case.

‘That the Commission would, in accordance with the Order of the Court of Appeal in Appeal No. CA/ABJ/145/2026 refrain from taking any step or doing any act capable of foisting a fait accompli on the court or otherwise rendering nugatory the proceedings before the trial court, having regard to all the processes filed before the trial Court.

Since the names of the current National Working Committee members led by Senator David Mark were uploaded on 9th September, 2025 by INEC (7 days after the suit was instituted), the names would be removed from the INEC portal pursuant to the order of the Court of Appeal to maintain the status quo ante bellum until the matter is decided by the trial court’ INEC submitted.

The electoral body also rejected the request by Bala to recognize him as acting national chairman, noting that granting such a request will amount to violation of the court order.

‘The Commission shall not receive any further communication or deal with any of the parties or groups pertaining to the affairs of the party’ the statement added-Team@orientactualmags.com  Do you have any information you wish to share with us? Do you want us to cover your event or programme? Kindly send SMS to 08035023079,  08059100286, 09094171980 or get in touch via orientactualmag@gmail.com.  Thank you