The heavy deployment of security personnel comes at a critical moment for the ADC, which is currently embroiled in a deepening internal crisis that has sharply divided its leadership. The dispute has split the party into rival factions, fueling uncertainty, discontent, and agitation among its members nationwide.
Eyewitnesses at the INEC headquarters reported an unusually strong presence of armed operatives, including personnel of the Nigerian Army. Several armoured vehicles were strategically positioned around the premises, with soldiers maintaining a visible and watchful stance.
In addition, officers of the Nigeria Police Force were deployed in large numbers to reinforce security at the location. Many of the officers were seen carrying rifles and other crowd-control equipment, suggesting preparedness for any potential unrest.
Movement in and around the commission’s headquarters was significantly restricted. Security checkpoints were mounted at key entry and exit points, while operatives conducted thorough monitoring of activities both within and outside the complex. Although the atmosphere remained calm as of Thursday morning, there was an unmistakable sense of tension in the air.
The show of force by security agencies is widely believed to be linked to threats issued by some aggrieved members of the ADC, who had indicated plans to stage a protest at the INEC office. The planned demonstration is aimed at challenging recent actions taken by the electoral commission regarding the party’s leadership structure.
At the heart of the controversy is INEC’s decision to remove the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its official portal as the National Chairman and National Secretary of the ADC, respectively. The move has further intensified the already fragile situation within the party.
INEC had explained that its action was in compliance with “preservatory orders” issued by the Court of Appeal. According to the commission, the court directed all parties involved in the dispute to maintain the status quo pending the determination of a substantive case before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The legal tussle has exposed deep fractures within the ADC, with multiple factions laying claim to the party’s leadership. One faction remains loyal to Mark, while another group is backing Nafiu Bala Gombe as acting national chairman. Both camps have continued to send conflicting communications to INEC, each seeking official recognition.
In its earlier statement, the electoral body clarified its position, noting that the removal of the affected names was necessary to comply with the appellate court’s directive.
“The names of the current National Working Committee members led by Senator David Mark… would be removed from the INEC portal pursuant to the order of the Court of Appeal to maintain the status quo ante bellum,” the commission stated.
INEC also disclosed that it had received a series of letters from the opposing factions within the party. While one group cautioned the commission against recognising Gombe’s leadership, another insisted that INEC must fully comply with the court’s ruling by adjusting its records accordingly.
Faced with the growing confusion and legal complexities, the commission announced a temporary suspension of recognition for any faction within the ADC. It further declared that it would refrain from engaging with any group until a final judicial pronouncement is made on the matter.
“The commission shall not receive any further communication or deal with any of the parties or groups… and will not monitor any meeting, congress or convention convened on behalf of the ADC by any group,” INEC said in a firm statement.
This decision, however, has sparked outrage among some members of the party, who accuse the commission of bias and undue interference in the internal affairs of the ADC. Critics argue that INEC’s actions could worsen the crisis rather than help resolve it.
Political analysts note that the situation underscores the persistent challenges of internal democracy within political parties in Nigeria. The ongoing dispute not only threatens the unity of the ADC but could also affect its preparedness for future electoral contests if not swiftly resolved.
As tensions continue to mount, security agencies appear determined to prevent any escalation into violence. The heavy presence of armed operatives at the INEC headquarters is widely seen as a precautionary measure aimed at maintaining law and order, particularly in light of the planned protest.
For now, Abuja remains on alert as stakeholders await further developments in the unfolding crisis. Much will depend on the outcome of the court proceedings, which are expected to provide clarity on the leadership dispute and determine the next course of action for both the party and the electoral commission.
