ADC wants Nafiu Gombe prosecuted for false INEC claim

The African Democratic Congress has asked for an investigation and prosecution of its factional leader, Nafiu Gombe. This comes after the Independent National Electoral Commission clarified that claims about Gombe uploading the party’s candidates for the 2027 general election on their nomination portal were false.

The party made this demand in a statement on Tuesday from its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi. This followed INEC’s clarification that it did not give Bala access codes to its restricted nomination portal. The commission only recognizes the David Mark-led National Executive Committee.

This situation adds another chapter to the ongoing leadership crisis in the ADC. The crisis has pitted the David Mark-led leadership against a rival faction led by Bala. The dispute has led to several court cases, protests, and arguments about who truly leads the party as they prepare for the 2027 general election.

After INEC’s clarification, the ADC expressed support for the commission’s position. They accused Bala of trying to mislead the public. The party stated that this issue has gone beyond political disagreements and now raises concerns about an alleged attempt to deceive Nigerians.

The statement included, “The African Democratic Congress (ADC) welcomes the prompt clarification by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which clearly confirmed that the document circulated by Mr. Nafiu Bala, claiming to show that he had obtained the Commission’s access code and uploaded candidates on behalf of the ADC for the 2027 general election, was forged, and that the claim itself was completely false.

“The issue before us is no longer just about the continuous false statements made by Nafiu Bala Gombe at the behest of his sponsors. It is about the clear attempt to mislead the Nigerian public.”

The ADC argued that falsely claiming access to INEC’s restricted nomination portal is a serious allegation that should catch the attention of security agencies. The opposition party then urged the electoral commission to ensure that everyone connected to the alleged false claim is investigated and prosecuted.

“To publicly claim that one has gained access to INEC’s restricted nomination platform and exercised powers meant for legitimate party officials is a serious matter that requires immediate action from law enforcement agencies.”

“As a responsible party, the ADC calls on INEC to take all necessary steps to ensure that Mr. Nafiu Bala and anyone else involved in creating or spreading this falsehood are investigated and prosecuted according to the law,” the party stated.

PUNCH Online had earlier reported that Atiku Abubakar’s Media Office accused INEC of giving Bala access to the commission’s nomination portal. This allegation was denied by the electoral body.

In an exclusive interview with PUNCH Online on Monday, a senior INEC official stated that the commission did not give any access code to Bala. They emphasized that only the David Mark-led leadership is recognized by the commission and is authorized to access the nomination portal.