Legal Practitioner Faults INEC's Decision on ADC Leadership Dispute
Binzak Azeez, a legal practitioner, has strongly criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its handling of the ongoing crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC). In an exclusive interview, Azeez argued that INEC should have sought clarification from the courts before making a unilateral decision to derecognize the party's leadership led by former Senate President David Mark.
Concerns Over Democracy and External Interference
Azeez emphasized that the leadership controversy within the ADC is not just an internal party matter but a significant concern for all Nigerians and democracy advocates. He stated, "The recent crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress goes beyond the concern of the members of the party or the people who only align with the party. The current leadership controversy within the party should be a major concern for every Nigerian and all advocates of democracy." He warned that the situation could undermine democratic principles in Nigeria, especially with the 2027 presidential election approaching.
The lawyer expressed suspicion that the crisis is being fueled by an external conspiracy and political interests. He accused INEC of being recruited into this conspiracy, compromising its neutrality and integrity. Azeez said, "I can unequivocally state that the current leadership tussle within the ADC is an external conspiracy hatched by some political interest. The major concern is the recruitment of INEC into the conspiracy." He condemned INEC's interpretation of a Court of Appeal ruling filed by factional leader Nafiu Bala, calling it ambiguous and unacceptable.
Call for Judicial Accountability and Legal Precedents
Azeez advised the ADC leadership to take action against any judges involved in what he described as flagrant disobedience of recent Supreme Court judgments. He cited cases such as Anyanwu v. Aniagwu Emmanuel & 3 Ors. (SC/CV/18/2025) and Julius Abure in (SC/CV/56/2025), where the apex court regulated judicial intervention in political party affairs. He argued that these precedents show the courts lack jurisdiction to intervene in the ADC's internal leadership dispute, and INEC should have respected this by seeking further legal guidance.
He concluded by warning that INEC's actions pose a monumental danger to Nigeria's democracy, potentially leading to anarchy or military intervention. Azeez urged vigilance and adherence to democratic norms to prevent such outcomes.
