The Northern Consultative Youth Council (NCYC) has called on the leadership factions of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to refrain from dragging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) into their internal disputes, urging the party to focus on resolving its lingering leadership crisis.
The Council was reacting to the recent position of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which stated that it would no longer accept correspondences from either the David Mark-led faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) or that of Rafiu Bala, following its review of the Court of Appeal judgment delivered on March 12.
In a statement issued Thursday by Mallam Ashiru Abu, the NCYC described the development as a clear indication that the crisis within the ADC has deepened to a level that now threatens its credibility as a political platform.
The group noted that rather than apportioning blame or making allegations against INEC, the party should prioritize internal reconciliation and respect for due process.
“The attempt by factions within the ADC to politicize the decision of INEC is both unnecessary and counterproductive. The electoral body has acted within its constitutional mandate, and it is not its responsibility to resolve intra-party disputes,” the statement read.
The Council further criticized the allegation by the ADC, through its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, that INEC acted under external pressure, describing such claims as unsubstantiated and capable of undermining public trust in democratic institutions.
“Dragging INEC into partisan controversies only weakens public confidence in the electoral process. Political parties must take responsibility for managing their internal affairs in line with the law,” the Council added.
The NCYC urged all stakeholders within the ADC to embrace dialogue, adhere strictly to the provisions of the law, and work towards a unified leadership that can effectively represent the interests of its members and supporters.
While reaffirming its commitment to democratic principles, the Council emphasized that strong institutions like INEC must be protected from undue political attacks, stressing that Nigeria’s democracy can only thrive when political actors act responsibly and within the bounds of the law.
