Political activist, entrepreneur, and human rights advocate Aisha Yesufu has strongly criticised the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to delist the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the move as unlawful, arbitrary, and a dangerous overreach of institutional authority.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE NEWS, Yesufu expressed shock at what she characterised as the commission’s “brazen” disregard for due process, questioning INEC’s authority to interpret court rulings in a manner that effectively alters their meaning.
According to her, the action taken by INEC was not only procedurally flawed but also indicative of a troubling pattern in which institutions appear to exceed their constitutional mandates. She argued that the commission had no legal basis to remove or delist the leadership of a political party, especially in the absence of a clear directive from the court.
Yesufu pointed out that the Court of Appeal judgment cited by INEC did not explicitly mandate the removal of the ADC leadership. Instead, she said, the ruling merely directed a return to a prior state of affairs. In her view, that position did not imply a vacuum in leadership, as the party has consistently maintained a leadership structure throughout its history.
She questioned the rationale behind INEC’s interpretation, asking whether the commission had assumed the role of a judicial body capable of issuing its own verdicts. For her, the development reflects a dangerous precedent where regulatory institutions begin to reinterpret legal decisions based on discretion rather than strict adherence to the law.
Rejecting suggestions that the matter could be subject to differing interpretations, Yesufu insisted that the judgment was clear and unambiguous. She maintained that at no point in its existence had the ADC operated without leadership, thereby undermining any justification for INEC’s action.
Beyond the legal concerns, Yesufu framed the development within a broader political context, alleging that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu were motivated by fear of a strengthening opposition. She argued that declining public support for the ruling party has heightened its sensitivity to the growing influence of opposition platforms like the ADC.
According to her, the increasing alignment of political actors with the ADC has made the party a significant force ahead of the 2027 elections, thereby attracting efforts aimed at weakening its organisational capacity.
She warned against what she described as a deliberate attempt to steer Nigeria toward a one-party system, stressing that such a trajectory would undermine the very foundations of democracy. In her view, a functional democratic system requires a vibrant and competitive opposition capable of holding the government accountable.
Yesufu further criticised INEC’s leadership, accusing the commission of abandoning its role as an impartial electoral umpire. She argued that rather than maintaining neutrality, the commission appears to be acting in ways that favour the ruling party, thereby eroding public trust in the electoral process.
She expressed particular disappointment at the conduct of senior officials within the commission, noting that individuals with strong legal and academic credentials are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and adherence to the rule of law. Instead, she said, recent actions suggest a departure from those expectations.
On internal party matters, including the scheduling of congresses and primaries, Yesufu declined to provide specific details, stating that such issues fall within the purview of the party’s leadership. However, she maintained that INEC’s actions have effectively disrupted the ADC’s ability to organise its internal processes and prepare for upcoming elections.
She argued that the commission’s conduct amounts to a deliberate effort to disenfranchise the party by obstructing its ability to field candidates within the limited timeframe provided by electoral regulations. According to her, the ADC had formally notified INEC of its planned congresses, and the commission had acknowledged receipt of that communication before reversing its position.
Yesufu described this sudden shift as deeply concerning, particularly given the proximity to key electoral milestones. She suggested that such actions could have far-reaching implications, not only for the ADC but for the broader democratic process in Nigeria.
Rejecting the notion that these concerns are speculative, she insisted that INEC’s actions already demonstrate a pattern of interference. She said the situation goes beyond allegations, as the commission’s decisions have had tangible effects on the party’s operations.
Despite these challenges, Yesufu affirmed that the ADC is pursuing legal avenues to challenge INEC’s decision. She expressed confidence that the courts would provide clarity and ensure that due process is upheld before critical deadlines for candidate nominations.
She also emphasised the importance of institutional independence, warning that any compromise in this regard could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democratic system. Referring to reports of external pressure on INEC officials, she noted that such allegations, whether proven or not, further complicate public perceptions of the commission’s credibility.
In addition, Yesufu raised concerns about reports of corruption within electoral and judicial institutions, including claims of financial inducements and the exchange of favours. She argued that such practices, if left unchecked, could transform key democratic institutions into instruments of political manipulation.
For her, the stakes are high. She warned that when institutions designed to protect democracy instead become tools of oppression, the entire system is at risk. She reminded Nigerians that the country’s democratic framework was achieved through significant sacrifice and should not be undermined by the actions of a few individuals.
Addressing broader political developments, Yesufu dismissed claims that concerns about the treatment of Peter Obi are exaggerated. She argued that while Obi continues to operate freely, there have been instances where political actors have attempted to restrict his movements, including reported warnings issued in certain states.
She maintained that such actions are unconstitutional, stressing that all Nigerians have the right to move freely within the country without interference. Any attempt by state authorities to restrict that right, she said, is both illegal and unacceptable.
Yesufu also reiterated her support for Obi’s pledge to serve only one term if elected president, emphasising that her backing is contingent on his adherence to that commitment. She stated unequivocally that she would oppose him if he reneges on that promise, underscoring the importance of integrity and accountability in leadership.
In her view, Obi’s appeal lies in his empathy and his desire to leave a lasting legacy, qualities she believes are essential for transformative leadership.
On political realignments, she described the reported defection of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to the ADC as a strategic development that has enhanced the party’s visibility and political strength.
Ultimately, Yesufu characterised the unfolding political environment as a critical moment for Nigeria. She argued that the challenges facing opposition parties are not coincidental but part of a broader, coordinated pattern that demands scrutiny.
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, she described the contest as a defining struggle for the nation’s future, urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and actively defend democratic principles. She emphasised that no individual or group has greater ownership of the country than others, calling on citizens to assert their collective stake in Nigeria’s future.
On voter registration and revalidation, Yesufu criticised INEC’s timing, describing the decision to undertake such an exercise close to the elections as impractical. While acknowledging the need to address inaccuracies in the voter register, she argued that such reforms should be implemented well in advance, allowing sufficient time for proper execution.
In conclusion, Yesufu’s remarks highlight deep concerns about institutional integrity, electoral fairness, and the broader health of Nigeria’s democracy. Her critique underscores the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law as the country approaches another critical electoral cycle.
