A political storm is brewing as the youth wing of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a fiery 72-hour ultimatum to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), warning of mass nationwide protests if their demands are ignored.
Speaking in Abuja, the party’s National Youth Leader, Balarabe Rufa’i, accused INEC of “institutional sabotage” and declared that Nigeria’s democracy is under serious threat.
According to him, the crisis stems from the controversial leadership change that brought David Mark to power in 2025—an outcome he insists INEC had already verified and recognized before suddenly reversing course.
Rufa’i blasted the electoral body for allegedly overstepping its constitutional powers, insisting it has no authority to interpret court rulings. He described the commission’s actions as “partisan” and a dangerous interference in party affairs.
In a bold escalation, the ADC youths demanded the immediate reinstatement of the David Mark-led leadership on INEC’s official portal, a public apology, and a firm commitment to neutrality.
They also called on the National Assembly to investigate INEC’s conduct and consider sanctions—including the possible removal of its chairman—while urging the judiciary to step in and clarify its orders.
The warning didn’t stop there.
Rufa’i declared that failure to comply within three days would trigger coordinated, peaceful protests across all 36 states and the FCT, including the occupation of INEC offices nationwide.
“We will not retreat, we will not be intimidated,” he said, framing the standoff as a fight not just for the ADC, but for the survival of Nigeria’s democracy.
The development piles fresh pressure on the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with the ADC cautioning against any moves that could weaken opposition forces ahead of the 2027 elections.
With tensions rising and the clock ticking, all eyes are now on INEC as the ultimatum countdown begins.
