Party Says Nafiu Bala’s Alleged Access to 2027 Nomination Portal Was a “Grave Deception”
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called for the immediate investigation and prosecution of its factional leader, Nafiu Bala, after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) dismissed his claims of uploading party candidates for the 2027 general election through its official nomination portal.
In a statement issued Tuesday by National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi, the party welcomed INEC’s clarification that it never granted Bala access codes to the restricted nomination system, and that only the David Mark-led National Executive Committee is officially recognized by the electoral body.
KEY DEVELOPMENTS
· INEC’s Firm Rejection: The electoral commission categorically denied issuing any access code to Bala, labeling his claims as entirely false.
· Leadership Crisis Escalates: The controversy is the latest chapter in a prolonged power struggle between the David Mark-led faction and Bala’s rival group, which has already spawned multiple court cases and protests.
· Security Agencies Called In: The ADC argues that falsely claiming access to INEC’s restricted platform constitutes a “grave matter” warranting law enforcement intervention.
WHAT THE ADC SAID
“The issue before us is no longer simply about the continuous false statements issued by Nafiu Bala Gombe… It is about the clear and unmistakable attempt to mislead the Nigerian public.”
“To publicly claim that one has gained access to INEC’s restricted nomination platform and exercised powers reserved for duly recognised party officials is a grave matter that deserves the immediate attention of law enforcement agencies.”
The party urged INEC to ensure that everyone connected with the alleged false claim is investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
BACKGROUND
The dispute stems from an earlier allegation by Atiku Abubakar’s Media Office that INEC had granted Bala access to the nomination portal—a claim INEC swiftly denied. A senior INEC official later confirmed to PUNCH Online that only the David Mark-led leadership is authorized to access the system.
WHAT’S NEXT
With the 2027 general election preparations underway, the ADC leadership crisis shows no signs of abating. The party’s demand for prosecution adds a new legal dimension to an already volatile political feud that could impact its electoral readiness.
