The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, has declared that the party will comply with electoral regulations ahead of the 2027 general elections but will not accept any attempt to manipulate the electoral process.
Mark made the declaration during a meeting with the governing council of the Savannah Centre for Diplomacy, Democracy and Development at the ADC national headquarters in Abuja.
The delegation was led by former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola, as part of the organisation’s engagement with political stakeholders ahead of the elections.
Mark said the ADC was committed to lawful political participation and would conduct its activities in a manner that strengthened public confidence in democratic institutions.
“We hold ourselves to the highest standards of good conduct as a political party. We will play by the rules,” he said.
However, he insisted that the party would challenge any attempt to compromise the electoral process.
ADC Emphasises Electoral Credibility
The ADC chairman’s remarks come as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections.
Electoral credibility remains a major issue in Nigeria’s political system, where disagreements over voting procedures, results collation and the conduct of electoral officials have frequently generated disputes.
Mark said his party would respect the established rules while defending its interests through legitimate democratic processes.
The statement reflects the importance opposition parties attach to transparency and consistent enforcement of electoral regulations.
However, Mark’s warning did not establish that manipulation had occurred. It was presented as the party’s position on how it intends to respond to potential irregularities.
Former CJN Calls for Peaceful Conduct
Ariwoola urged the ADC leadership to ensure that its candidates, members and supporters complied with regulations issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He also emphasised the need to avoid actions capable of provoking political violence.
The Savannah Centre’s governing council, known as the Council of the Wise, was reconstituted in June to engage institutions and political stakeholders on peaceful, free and credible elections.
Its meeting with Mark forms part of that broader consultation process.
Political Parties Face Responsibility
The conduct of political parties will be important to maintaining public confidence in the forthcoming elections.
Beyond the responsibility of INEC to administer elections, political parties must ensure that their agents, candidates and supporters operate within the law.
Internal party disputes, inflammatory statements and disagreements over electoral procedures can complicate the political environment.
Engagements involving civic organisations and political leaders are therefore intended to encourage peaceful participation and greater respect for electoral institutions.
Electoral Disputes Require Lawful Resolution
Nigeria’s electoral framework provides procedures for challenging electoral decisions and results.
These mechanisms are intended to ensure that political grievances can be addressed without resorting to violence.
For opposition parties, the ability to monitor voting, document complaints and pursue legal remedies forms an important part of electoral participation.
The ADC’s stated commitment to following electoral rules will consequently be tested by how the party conducts its campaign activities and responds to disputes.
Focus Shifts to 2027
As the elections approach, political organisations are expected to increase their engagement with INEC, civil society and other stakeholders.
The Savannah Centre’s consultations highlight the importance of building confidence before voting begins.
For the ADC, Mark’s statement sets out a position combining compliance with electoral regulations and opposition to perceived irregularities.
The broader challenge for all participating parties will be ensuring that political competition remains peaceful and that electoral disagreements are resolved through lawful institutions.
