ADC Distances Itself From Cancellation Of 2023 Election

The February 2023 presidential and National Assembly elections in Nigeria were reportedly marred by violence, rigging, and voter intimidation. As a result, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party, and African Democratic Congress (ADC) jointly held a press conference in Abuja, calling for the resignation of the Chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu.

They demanded the conduct of fresh elections, citing the violations of electoral laws during the polls.

However, the ADC, one of the three parties that made the call, later issued a press statement distancing itself from the demand for the cancellation of the election. The party’s Board of Trustees Chairman, Senator Mrs. Patricia Akwashiki, clarified that the former ADC Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, who spoke on behalf of the party, did not have the authority to make such a decision. According to the statement, the ADC’s reaction to the election would only come after the final result had been announced by INEC.

The ADC also emphasized its commitment to the integrity of the electoral process and urged all parties involved in the election to adhere to the Electoral Act’s guidelines. The statement called for the parties to remain law-abiding and avoid actions that could undermine the electoral process’s integrity or lead to a breakdown of law and order.

The ADC’s decision to distance itself from the demand for the cancellation of the election highlights the complexities of the Nigerian political landscape. It also underscores the need for political parties to have clear structures and decision-making processes to avoid confusion and inconsistencies in their statements and actions.

The call for the resignation of the INEC chairman has sparked debates about the credibility of the electoral body and its ability to conduct free and fair elections in Nigeria. While some argue that the demand is justified given the reported violations during the polls, others believe that it could set a dangerous precedent and undermine the institution’s independence.

Overall, the February 2023 presidential and National Assembly elections in Nigeria have once again highlighted the challenges facing the country’s electoral system. The ADC’s decision to distance itself from the demand for the election’s cancellation is a reminder that political parties must be vigilant and responsible in their actions and statements to avoid contributing to the challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy.