ADC Warns of 2027 Poll Exclusion, PRP Pushes Back Amid Rising Political Tensions

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has appealed to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, to ensure a prompt Supreme Court ruling on its leadership crisis, warning that delays could prevent it from contesting the 2027 elections.

In its April 28 letter, the faction led by Senator David Mark stressed that without a judgment within three days, the party risks being shut out of the electoral process.

It argued that its participation hinges on meeting deadlines set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), especially with only days left for submission of membership registers.

“Without the delivery of judgment… ADC stands the grave and irreversible risk of being excluded,” the party stated, warning that such an outcome would “disenfranchise millions of Nigerians.”

The dispute follows INEC’s decision to remove the party’s leadership from its official records after a Court of Appeal ruling, pending final determination by the Supreme Court.

At the same time, the ADC accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of fuelling instability within the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), raising concerns about what it described as a narrowing democratic space.

However, the PRP rejected claims of internal crisis, insisting there is no faction within the party.

“The claims… are baseless and do not represent the reality of our party,” it said, adding: “We are prepared for both genuine and manufactured aggression.”

The party also cautioned critics, stating: “Our restraint should not be mistaken for weakness.”

Legal experts have downplayed suggestions of a deliberate delay by the Supreme Court, emphasizing the need for careful judicial consideration.

“Judgments are not churned out like akara,” said senior lawyer Victor Opara, highlighting the court’s workload and the importance of well-reasoned decisions.

Observers note that with INEC’s deadlines fast approaching, the timing of the court’s ruling could significantly shape the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.

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