What should be done to address ADC crisis — Political Scientists

The Nigerian Political Science Association (NPSA) has proposed solutions to the lingering leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The Association called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to invite the ADC leadership to a meeting, an engagement it said should have taken place before the Commission delisted the executives led by David Mark.

In a statement entitled “Possible Ways Out of the Logjam”, signed by Hassan Saliu, the NPSA President, recalled that a previous INEC leadership adopted a similar approach with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), cautioning against finalisation following communications received from rival factions.

The association also urged INEC to approach the Court of Appeal for proper interpretation of its order on status quo ante bellum, adding that litigants should return to the High Court as directed by the appellate court.

As an alternative, the NPSA suggested that respected national figures could intervene by facilitating dialogue between INEC and the ADC factions to resolve the impasse amicably. It added that traditional rulers could also play a mediatory role in brokering peace.

“Democracy is both conflictual and consensus-building. The disputants within the ADC can meet, reach a consensus, and decongest the courts,” the statement said.

The Association, however, cautioned against internationalising the dispute, describing such a move as potentially counterproductive.

“There are proposals to externalise the impasse. We do not agree with this option. Resorting to international mechanisms could be a double-edged sword, with implications for Nigeria’s external image,” it stated.

The NPSA advised the ruling party to exercise moderation in the transition process to avoid pushing opposition elements to the brink, while also urging INEC to act with caution amid heightened political tensions.

“The political environment is already charged with suspicion. INEC’s actions should be carefully considered, given the prevalence of self-serving politics in the country,” the statement added.

The Association maintained that the crisis is resolvable through internal mechanisms and stressed the need for urgent steps to ease tensions between INEC and the rival ADC factions.