Fresh documents have emerged casting doubt on the handling of the leadership crisis within the (INEC), particularly regarding its role in the dispute involving the (ADC).
The controversy follows INEC’s recent position that its actions were guided strictly by a Court of Appeal judgment, as stated by its National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna. However, newly surfaced documents appear to contradict key aspects of that stance.
One of the documents, dated May 17, 2025, is a resignation letter allegedly written by Hon. Nafiu Bala, in which he formally stepped down as Deputy National Chairman of the ADC, effective May 26, 2025. In the letter, Bala stated that his resignation was intended to support a smooth coalition and restructuring process within the party, while affirming his continued loyalty and willingness to serve in other capacities.
A separate letter dated July 21, 2025, shows that the ADC officially notified INEC of Bala’s resignation. The party indicated that the resignation had been duly received, considered, and accepted by its National Working Committee in line with its constitution and the Electoral Act. The correspondence, which was acknowledged by INEC, requested the Commission to update its records accordingly.
These documents appear to contradict Bala’s current position in court, where he maintains that he never resigned and is therefore entitled to assume the role of National Chairman following internal changes in the party.
The development has intensified scrutiny of INEC’s recent decisions, particularly its insistence on maintaining a status quo pending the determination of the matter before the Federal High Court. Critics argue that this stance may not align with the documented sequence of events.
Political observers say the situation raises concerns about INEC’s interpretation of the Court of Appeal ruling and whether its actions may have contributed to a leadership vacuum within the ADC. With the Commission declining to recognise any faction for now, stakeholders continue to question whether its position reflects strict adherence to the law or a broader political calculation.
The unfolding controversy adds to growing tensions within Nigeria’s political space as parties begin early alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
