Senator Victor Umeh has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of interfering in the internal affairs of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The lawmaker representing Anambra Central condemned the electoral body’s recent actions, describing them as overreach.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Umeh defended the party’s leadership under David Mark, insisting that the move to appeal a Federal High Court ruling was legitimate.
“The truth is that there is no blame on David Mark’s leadership for approaching the Court of Appeal after the Federal High Court claimed it had no jurisdiction,” Umeh said. “If a court lacks jurisdiction, any action it takes is invalid, no matter how well-intentioned. Challenging this decision was entirely correct.”
Umeh explained that jurisdiction is central to legal proceedings. “The issue of jurisdiction was raised at the onset. When a court lacks jurisdiction, it should not proceed with the matter. David Mark’s leadership was right to contest the Federal High Court’s decision,” he added.
He further questioned why the Court of Appeal continued with the case if jurisdiction was in doubt. “If the Federal High Court truly lacked jurisdiction, the Court of Appeal would have stopped the process. Even the appellate court must recognize limits, especially regarding internal party disputes.”
Last week, INEC confirmed the delisting of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as ADC’s National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively. Mohammed Kudu, INEC’s National Commissioner and head of Information and Voter Education, explained that the move followed a court order requiring the commission to maintain the status quo until the trial court delivers a final judgment.
Umeh’s comments intensify scrutiny on INEC’s role in political party disputes, highlighting ongoing tension between the electoral body and Nigeria’s smaller coalition parties. As the legal process unfolds, ADC’s leadership crisis remains unresolved, with implications for party cohesion and the broader political landscape.
