NCSC Backs INEC Chairman Amid ADC Leadership Crisis

The Nigerian Civil Society Council (NCSC) expressed its support for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, during a press conference in Abuja. Executive Director Bless Akinlosotu cautioned the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other political actors against escalating their internal disputes into public protests, which could undermine public trust in electoral institutions.

The ADC is currently facing a leadership crisis following a controversial restructuring that has led to prolonged legal battles and divisions within the party. Akinlosotu highlighted that the ADC's approach of challenging INEC's decisions in court rather than addressing substantive issues has contributed to the ongoing crisis.

The NCSC emphasized the need for political parties to respect judicial rulings and avoid using civil society organizations as tools for political warfare. The council noted that recent elections, including the Anambra state governorship poll, showed gradual improvements in electoral processes, although challenges remain.