The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has said the Supreme Court judgement that recognised Senator David Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC) has put to rest all contrived disputes and manufactured uncertainties against the party.
ADC, in a statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the judgement reinforced the principle that the rule of law, not political manipulation, must guide the affairs of the democracy.
The party stated that the events leading up to the judgement have exposed what it called “a troubling pattern of interference, bad faith, and attempts to weaken opposition voices in Nigeria.”
It, however, assured that the ADC would not be intimidated, distracted, or silenced, adding, “We remain resolute in our mission to provide Nigerians with a credible alternative, anchored on ending insecurity, reducing the cost of living, and creating jobs at scale.”
The party maintained its call for the resignation of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan.
According to the ADC, “the circumstances surrounding this matter, now clarified by the Supreme Court, point to either a grave failure of judgement or a deliberate act of bad faith” of the INEC Chairman.
It argued that the integrity and neutrality required of the office of the INEC Chairman have been compromised.
“Nigeria’s democracy cannot afford an electoral umpire whose actions raise legitimate questions about impartiality,” the party stated.
It commended the five-man panel of the Supreme Court, whose unanimous judgement, it added, has done great credit to the judiciary in the country and the political system.
The party called on INEC to immediately restore the recognition of the David Mark-led leadership on its website and in all formal channels of communication.
ADC also called on its members, supporters, and democratic stakeholders to remain vigilant.
“Democracy is not defended in a single courtroom victory; it is sustained through constant vigilance, active participation, and the courage to resist any attempt to undermine the will of the people.
“What has been attempted once can be attempted again; hence, we must not let our guard down,” they advised.
