Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has faulted the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to delist David Mark as the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, describing the move as unjustified and legally questionable.
INEC had earlier announced on April 1 that it would no longer recognise Mark’s leadership of the party, along with another faction led by Nafiu Bala. The commission said its decision was based on a directive from the Court of Appeal, which instructed parties involved in the dispute to maintain the “status quo ante bellum”—meaning the situation before the case was filed at the Federal High Court.
However, speaking during an interview on BBC Newsday, Atiku argued that INEC overstepped its authority by interpreting the court’s interim ruling.
“INEC has no responsibility to interpret court decisions. That is the duty of the judiciary,” he stated, accusing the commission of misapplying the law and acting with bias.
When asked whether the alleged bias was intended to favour the current administration led by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Atiku responded affirmatively, suggesting that the decision could be politically motivated.
⚖️ Claims of Legal Overreach
Atiku maintained that INEC’s action contradicts established legal precedents, including rulings by the Supreme Court, which affirm that internal party matters should not be interfered with by external bodies.
According to him, the removal of the Mark-led leadership from INEC’s official records undermines the autonomy of political parties and sets a troubling precedent for Nigeria’s democratic system.
He further described the situation as a sign of increasing government interference in both electoral and judicial processes.
🗳 Concerns Over Democracy
The former vice-president warned that such developments could threaten Nigeria’s democratic progress, arguing that they reflect a gradual shift toward authoritarian practices.
He emphasized that he has spent decades advocating for democracy in the country and expressed concern that those achievements could be reversed if institutions fail to remain neutral.
Atiku also stressed the importance of having an independent electoral body capable of conducting free and fair elections without influence from the government.
🔐 Security and Economic Concerns
Beyond electoral matters, Atiku raised alarm over Nigeria’s security situation, describing it as worsening despite the country’s available resources and manpower.
He questioned why the government has struggled to effectively address terrorism and criminal activities, suggesting that there may be deeper issues behind the ongoing challenges.
According to him, insecurity has made movement difficult for citizens and negatively affected businesses, particularly farmers and traders.
📉 Unemployment and Its Impact
Atiku also pointed to rising unemployment as a major concern, warning that joblessness among young people is contributing to increased crime rates.
He called for stronger collaboration with the private sector, urging the government to introduce policies and incentives that would encourage investment and job creation.
🔮 Looking Ahead to 2027
Despite his criticisms, Atiku expressed confidence in Nigeria’s democratic future. He said he believes citizens will ultimately make informed choices in the next general elections.
“Nigerians will choose the right leaders,” he said, expressing optimism about the country’s political direction ahead of 2027.
