ADC Crisis: Blame Your Leadership, Not INEC — Ajayi Fires at Opposition Figures
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ajayi, has taken a swipe at opposition figures over the lingering crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress (ADC), insisting that the party’s troubles are self-inflicted rather than caused by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Ajayi’s remarks come amid heightened political tension following INEC’s decision to suspend recognition of all leadership factions within the ADC due to ongoing legal disputes over the party’s leadership structure.
According to him, opposition leaders must take responsibility for the internal wrangling that has destabilised the party, rather than shifting blame to the electoral body. He argued that the crisis was triggered by actions that allegedly violated the party’s constitution and due process in leadership succession.
INEC had earlier removed the names of key ADC leaders from its official records and announced it would not engage with any faction of the party pending the final determination of the case before the Federal High Court. The commission said its decision was in compliance with a Court of Appeal ruling directing all parties to maintain the status quo.
Backing INEC’s position, Ajayi maintained that the electoral umpire acted within the law and should not be blamed for enforcing judicial directives. He described the ADC’s accusations against INEC and the ruling party as baseless and an attempt to deflect from internal failures.
The crisis within the ADC has drawn widespread reactions across the political space, with opposition figures alleging interference and a plot to weaken their coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, APC leaders have consistently dismissed these claims, insisting that the opposition’s problems stem from poor internal management and disregard for party rules.
Observers say the dispute highlights deeper divisions within opposition ranks, raising concerns about their preparedness to mount a strong challenge in upcoming elections.
