Dele Momodu, a prominent figure within the African Democratic Congress, has voiced strong criticism against the Independent National Electoral Commission following its decision to derecognize the party’s current leadership. This reaction comes after the names of Senator David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola were removed from the commission’s official portal, where they previously held the positions of National Chairman and National Secretary. The move was based on the commission’s specific interpretation of a recent Court of Appeal ruling regarding the party’s internal leadership struggle.
Taking to social media shortly after the party officially rejected the commission’s stance, Momodu did not hold back. He accused the electoral body of being biased and suggested that there is an underlying level of collusion with the ruling All Progressives Congress. Drawing a comparison to Nigeria’s political history, he described the commission as a recurring obstacle to the country’s progress, referencing the long-standing shadow of the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election.
Momodu further questioned the neutrality of the commission by pointing out what he perceives as a double standard in how it handles internal party disputes. He argued that the speed with which the body recognizes certain factions in opposition parties is highly suspicious, especially when compared to how it handles similar friction within the ruling party. Reports notes that Momodu believes the current political climate shows a government that is restless despite its efforts to bring various governors under its fold.
In discussing the future of the ADC leadership, Momodu warned that the path ahead is difficult. While he acknowledged that the judiciary is often seen as the last hope for aggrieved parties, he admitted that relying on the courts can be a precarious venture in the current environment. However, he maintained a sense of optimism, suggesting that factors beyond human control often play a role in resolving such deep-seated political conflicts.
The veteran journalist and politician also expressed concerns about the broader direction of Nigerian democracy. He suggested that there is an ongoing attempt to consolidate power in a way that reminds him of the late 1990s, with a goal of narrowing the field for future presidential contests. By highlighting these historical parallels, Momodu positioned the current crisis within the ADC not just as a party issue, but as a significant moment for the future of the nation’s political landscape.
