By Abdulsamad Abdulmalik
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), accusing the electoral body of actions that could push Nigeria toward a one-party state.
The concerns were discussed on today’s SBS FM newspaper review program, monitored by SBS FM reporter Abdulsamad Abdulmalik, featuring Comrade Saheed Abdullah and Barrister Taofeek. Both analysts highlighted what they described as undue interference by INEC in party affairs and the potential implications for Nigeria’s democracy.
Comrade Saheed warned that opposition parties may struggle to effectively organise congresses and primaries due to INEC’s interventions. “If the current trend continues, Nigeria may end up having just one dominant presidential candidate, which is not healthy for democracy,” he said, also criticising INEC for allegedly taking sides in the internal crisis rocking the ADC.
Barrister Taofeek questioned whether INEC has constitutional authority to interfere in the internal leadership structure of political parties beyond monitoring and accepting reports from party congresses. “INEC is expected to remain neutral, but in the ADC crisis, it appears the commission is taking a position,” he said.
Both speakers also held the ADC leadership accountable for the party’s internal wrangling, attributing divisions to unresolved disagreements over control and defections of key members from other political parties, particularly the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party.
Comrade Saheed stressed that while INEC’s actions are questionable, opposition parties must also safeguard themselves. “The ruling party will always seek ways to outmaneuver the opposition. It is the responsibility of opposition parties not to make themselves vulnerable,” he said.
The discussion further highlighted concerns about the lack of ideological foundations in Nigerian political parties, which are often driven by the quest for power rather than clear policy direction. The analysts called for legal frameworks to regulate frequent defections, warning that such trends undermine party stability and democratic development.
On electoral reforms, Comrade Saheed advocated technology-driven voting systems, including electronic and mobile-based platforms, to enhance transparency and participation. “We should not always rely on physical polling units. Technology can make elections easier, more transparent, and more inclusive,” he said.
Both speakers also expressed concern about the perceived lack of independence of INEC, noting that presidential appointment of its chairman undermines neutrality. They further cautioned about the judiciary’s role in election disputes, arguing that frequent court interventions weaken public confidence in electoral outcomes.
Barrister Taofeek warned that continued weakening of opposition parties could discourage Nigerians from participating in elections, strengthening the dominance of the ruling party. “This election is shaping up to be a contest between the masses and the ruling party,” he said, noting that Nigerians remain eager to exercise their voting rights despite challenges.
The analysts concluded by urging the ADC leadership to resolve its internal crisis and prioritise the interests of the masses, warning that failure to do so could destabilise the party and the broader opposition landscape.
