APC Congratulates ADC On Leadership Recognition By INEC

… Cautions Against Premature Campaigns Ahead Of 2027

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has extended formal congratulations to the newly recognised leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following the pronouncement by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), even as it voiced concerns over what it described as the questionable processes behind the ADC’s internal transition.

In a statement on Friday, signed by the Lagos APC spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, the party welcomed INEC’s endorsement of the David Mark-led ADC executive but criticised the legitimacy of the process that led to their emergence.

The APC affirmed its respect for the authority of INEC and the rule of law, expressing hope that the ADC’s new leadership would uphold democratic principles moving forward.

“While we acknowledge this formal recognition, we cannot overlook the many pitfalls, questionable processes, and undeniable undemocratic underhand tactics that trailed its emergence. In truth, what INEC has done is to place a legal stamp on a house built on sand.

“That said, the APC believes in the supremacy of the rule of law and the authority of INEC in regulating party affairs. It is in this spirit that we extend our congratulations to the ADC leadership, hoping that this legitimacy will inspire them to build structures anchored on transparency and principle, rather than manipulation, propaganda, and excuses,” the statement read.

INEC had earlier in the week formally recognised David Mark as National Chairman of the ADC, alongside other principal officers, including former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary and former Edo State Governor, Professor Oserheimen Osunbor, as National Legal Adviser.

The recognition followed a period of internal restructuring aimed at repositioning the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

However, the APC issued a strong warning to the ADC and other opposition parties over what it described as “premature campaigns,” cautioning that the rules governing the electoral cycle must be respected.

“We urge the ADC, its leadership, and indeed all opposition parties, to take seriously the clear warning from INEC on premature campaigns. The 2027 elections are still far ahead, and the rules governing campaigns are unambiguous.

“To jump the gun not only undermines fair competition but also exposes a party’s desperation and disregard for law and order,” APC warned.

The party accused the ADC of favouring propaganda over substance and urged it to play the role of a credible opposition by offering policy alternatives rather than making “empty noise.”

The APC noted that it remains fully committed to fair play, law, and democratic order, dismissing the ADC’s electoral viability, urging the party to first prove its relevance at the grassroots level.

“The Lagos APC further charges the seemingly rebranded ADC to be prepared to add value to our democracy by playing the role of a credible opposition that offers realistic policy alternatives, rather than indulging in bitter rhetoric that adds no value to governance or the lives of Nigerians.

“While the APC builds roads, rails, power infrastructure and economic reforms that create a future, the ADC builds excuses, issues press statements, and thrives on empty noise. Nigerians deserve better from any party that claims to be a national platform.

“The APC, not only as the ruling party, but also as the largest and the party of choice in Nigeria, remains the biggest stakeholder as regards the maintenance of peace and stability of the nation. In this regard, we advise the ADC and other opposition parties not to unnecessarily heat up the polity by their premature electioneering campaigns,” APC added.

APC Congratulates ADC On Leadership Recognition By INEC is first published on The Whistler Newspaper