The National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Bolaji Abdullahi, has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of aligning its position with that of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking during an interview on ARISE Television on Saturday, Abdullahi said the ADC’s concerns stemmed from “a pattern of similar messaging between INEC and the APC on issues affecting opposition parties”.

This followed recent controversies over electoral processes and opposition party activities.

“Why is INEC and APC suddenly singing from the same hymn book?” he asked during the programme.

He defended the ADC’s decision to appoint representatives and envoys in diaspora countries, insisting that the move was a legitimate political strategy aimed at engaging Nigerians abroad and strengthening party coordination.

He explained that the party was working with members in different countries who had been assigned responsibilities to document political developments and build strategic relationships.

“We are members of our party who live in those countries and we are giving them assignments to document issues and build relationships for us. It has nothing to do with illegality. We are a lawful party,” he said.

Abdullahi also dismissed criticisms of the party’s activities, insisting that the ADC was being unfairly targeted and that many of the allegations against it were politically motivated.

He further alleged that the ruling APC was behind efforts that have contributed to internal challenges within opposition parties, describing the situation as part of a broader pattern of political interference.

According to him, the ADC remains committed to constitutional and legal processes, including its planned congresses and conventions, which he said had been properly notified to INEC in line with electoral requirements.

“We have notified INEC as required by law. Our congresses and conventions will proceed in line with the Electoral Act,” he stated.

Abdullahi also rejected warnings suggesting that the party could face consequences over its internal processes, arguing that due process had been followed and that political parties were governed by law, not discretion.

(Daily Trust)