The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared that it will not entrust the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with the protection of its votes in the 2027 general elections, citing the electoral body’s alleged bias, susceptibility to partisan pressure, and actions that undermine multi-party democracy.
Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, stated that the party has lost confidence in INEC’s neutrality following a series of decisions and interventions that the ADC views as compromised. “We don’t trust INEC. INEC has shown its hand that it is biased,” Abdullahi said, warning that the commission has been intimidated and has succumbed to partisan pressure in a manner that threatens the integrity of the 2027 polls.
Abdullahi emphasized that the ADC will mobilize its members and supporters not only to vote but to actively protect their votes. “We are not just going to mobilise our people to vote, we are going to mobilise them to protect their own votes,” he affirmed. “We will do whatever it takes within the ambit of the law to protect our votes in 2027. If they think that they can steal the votes, then they have something else coming. So, in the African Democratic Congress, we are ready.”
The ADC has repeatedly accused elements within the ruling establishment of seeking to weaken viable opposition platforms ahead of 2027, including through interference in the party’s internal leadership matters and alleged efforts to create conditions that could limit genuine electoral competition. Abdullahi has linked these concerns to broader questions about the appointment of INEC leadership and the need for reforms that ensure the electoral umpire remains an unbiased referee.
The party reaffirmed its determination to contest the 2027 elections on the ADC platform and rejected any suggestion of boycotting the polls, describing boycott as equivalent to surrender. It called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and committed to defending democratic choice at the ballot box.
The ADC maintains that genuine multi-party democracy requires an independent electoral commission free from undue influence and processes that allow political parties meaningful participation in safeguarding electoral integrity.