The Movement for Credible Elections (MCE) yesterday condemned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for derecognising the African Democratic Congress (ADC) leadership headed by David Mark. Addressing a news conference in Lagos, a leader of the group Prof Pat Utomi said INEC’s decision was a malicious attempt to decapitate the ADC and the opposition in general.

According to the political economist, they will embark on nationwide protests, rallies and town hall meetings to mobilise Nigerians against INEC’s decision. Utomi said: “MCE is quite disturbed by the emerging alliance between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and INEC.

“It is an unethical combo that is poised to disenfranchise and exclude legitimate presidential contestants and parties from being on the ballot in the 2027 general election. “INEC, in its statement, claimed to rely on an order of the Court of Appeal directing that the status quo in ADC be maintained. “But notwithstanding the fact that the status quo of the leadership structure of the ADC is the National Executive Council (NEC), led by Mark and Aregbesola, Chairman and Secretary, respectively.

“INEC, without scruples, went on to unleash banditry on the ADC to the effect that it will no longer recognise any communications from the party, especially at this crucial stage of preparing for the 2027 election; emphasising that it would no longer monitor the ADC congresses scheduled to start on April 7. “So, where does this decision leave all the aspirants of one of the largest opposition parties in Nigeria?”