Ochinke Critiques INEC Over ADC Leadership Dispute

Attah Ochinke, the former Attorney General of Cross River State and a past chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association in the state, has publicly criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its handling of a court order related to the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He described INEC's interpretation of the court order as flawed, arguing that it effectively de-recognized the leadership of David Mark.

Ochinke emphasized that the court order explicitly directed the party to maintain the status quo until a substantive suit was determined. He expressed disappointment in INEC's actions, stating that they misapplied the court's directive, which could create a leadership vacuum within the party.

Ochinke also took issue with INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan, highlighting his legal background and the expectation that he would accurately interpret court rulings. He warned that INEC's decisions could further erode public confidence in the commission and advised the ADC to seek judicial clarification on the court order rather than pursuing a time-consuming appeal.