By ADEYEMI ADELEYE

The Youth Wing of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has demanded immediate restoration of party leadership under David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The group made the demand on Monday during a peaceful protest at INEC’s Lagos headquarters in Sabo-Yaba, where it also submitted a petition to the commission.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the petition is titled ‘Demand for Immediate Restoration of ADC Leadership and Defence of Democratic Order in Nigeria’.

Leading the protest, ADC South-West Youth Leader, Mrs Adeola Olusi, presented the petition signed by National Youth Leader, Mr Balarabe Rufa’i, to INEC officials.

Rufa’i said the demand followed the expiration of a 72-hour ultimatum issued to INEC on April 6.

He alleged the commission’s inaction heightened public concern and raised questions about its neutrality and adherence to constitutional provisions.

“Following the expiration of our 72-hour ultimatum, we hereby formally notify you that ADC youths have begun peaceful occupation of INEC offices nationwide.

“This action shall remain peaceful, constitutional, and continue indefinitely until full restoration of the legitimate ADC leadership under Mark and Aregbesola.

“This is not a protest of convenience; it is necessary democratic resistance. We will not be silenced.

“This is bigger than ADC; it concerns the future of democratic governance in Nigeria. We call on INEC to restore constitutional order immediately,” he said.

Rufa’i recalled the ADC National Executive Committee held a lawful meeting on July 29, 2025, under INEC supervision, constituting a new National Working Committee.

He noted INEC received, verified, and recognised the leadership on Sept. 9, 2025, without objections or disputes at the time.

“The commission’s subsequent actions amount to disregard for due process and its own verified records,” he said.

Rufa’i added the Court of Appeal directed parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum, which he said remained the Mark-led leadership.

He accused INEC of overstepping constitutional boundaries by interpreting court orders, a role reserved for the judiciary.

He called for immediate restoration of the leadership on INEC’s portal and a public apology over what he described as unconstitutional actions.

He also urged INEC to refrain from actions based on pending motions and demonstrate neutrality and institutional integrity.

Rufa’i further called for the resignation or removal of the INEC Chairman, alleging loss of public confidence.

Also speaking, Lagos ADC Chairman, Mr George Ashiru, said the protest had backing from party leadership at national and state levels.

“We are peaceful and law-abiding. We have the right to express our concerns and make observations.

“We must not reach a point where Nigerians lose the right to choose their leaders democratically. That would signal autocracy.

“We should not suffocate opposition parties. Our youths are fighting for their future,” Ashiru said.

He urged INEC Chairman to reconsider his position on ADC leadership.

INEC Head of Voter Education, Mr Taiwo Gbadegesin, who received the petition on behalf of Resident Electoral Commissioner, Prof. Ayobami Salami, commended the protesters.

“We assure you that your letter will be delivered to the appropriate authority for necessary action,” Gbadegesin said.

INEC recently announced the de-recognition of Mark and Aregbesola as ADC National Chairman and National Secretary, citing a court order. (NAN)