The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has called on the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to appreciate the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for derecognising factions of the party linked to Senator David Mark.
Keyamo made the remark in a statement posted on X on Friday, describing the crisis as a legal issue rather than a political one.
“The David Mark faction of the ADC think they can use emotional reasoning and blackmail to bluff their way out of a purely legal conundrum they brought upon themselves. Law does not admit of sentiment. Decisions are based on facts, evidence, and the interpretation of laws, not sympathy, emotion, or political considerations.
“All arguments about ‘status quo ante bellum’ are chasing shadows. Whether INEC recognises either faction for now is irrelevant; what matters is that a duly elected Deputy National Chairman has a legal challenge pending in court,” Keyamo said.
The minister warned that the unresolved dispute could prevent the ADC from fielding candidates in future elections.
“As long as the case remains in court, all actions by either faction may be rendered nugatory after INEC’s nomination deadline. The ADC risks having no candidate for the election,” he said.
Keyamo described INEC’s action as a warning, not an attack, advising the party to resolve the crisis, seek an accelerated court hearing, or explore other political options.
“The decision opens a window for them to find a new platform, accelerate court proceedings, or politically settle the leadership question quickly,” he added.
He also rejected claims that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) or INEC caused the crisis.
“To blame imaginary opponents or INEC is mischievous. Neither APC nor INEC prompted these politicians to hijack a platform without legal advice.
“If they proceed with their congresses and convention against INEC’s decision and the Court of Appeal ruling, that is fine. Never interrupt your opponent when he is making a mistake,” he said.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
What do you think about this?
Drop your opinion in the comment section.
FOLLOW US & Share this with someone who needs to see this.
