2027: IPAC cautions INEC to overturn ADC ruling or face loss of public trust

The Inter-Party Advisory Council has issued a stern warning to the Independent National Electoral Commission, urging it to rescind its decision regarding the African Democratic Congress leadership dispute to avoid a credibility crisis ahead of the 2027 elections.

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The council also expressed fresh concerns over the proposed nationwide voter revalidation exercise, citing its ill-timed nature, and condemned the ongoing killings in Plateau State.

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According to the council, recent developments in the electoral process and national security have sparked fears of weakening public trust, straining political institutions, and potentially excluding many Nigerians from participating in the democratic process.

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This position was outlined in a statement released by IPAC National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Egbeola Wale Martins, which was made available to journalists in Abuja.

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Regarding the ADC leadership dispute, IPAC cautioned the electoral body against taking steps that could exacerbate tensions or create uncertainty within the political sphere.

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The reported removal of Distinguished Senator David Mark and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola's names from INEC's official portal has been deemed premature and potentially destabilizing to the polity.

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IPAC stated that such actions, if not carefully managed, may set a troubling precedent and undermine confidence in the neutrality of the electoral umpire.

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The council emphasized that in cases of internal party disagreements, leadership structures, even when contested, do not constitute a vacuum.

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IPAC expressed concern over the timing of the proposed voter revalidation exercise, citing the potential for it to disenfranchise millions of eligible voters.

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The exercise's introduction, without broad consultation with political parties and adequate preparation, may lead to an overly congested electoral environment, ultimately excluding more citizens from the democratic process.

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IPAC urged INEC to reconsider the timing of the exercise to prevent such an outcome.

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The council condemned the persistent killings in Plateau State, describing them as senseless and a direct threat to national unity.

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IPAC emphasized that the perpetrators of these heinous crimes, along with their sponsors, must be swiftly apprehended and brought to justice.

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The council added that Nigeria's democracy can only thrive in an environment where elections are credible, institutions remain stable, and citizens feel safe.