ADC Calls on INEC to Probe Alleged Irregularities in Saturday’s By-Elections

By Diafa Doubra,

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised serious concerns over the conduct of the recently held by-elections across several states on Saturday, urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to launch a thorough investigation into alleged irregularities.

In a statement released by the party, the ADC claimed that reports from its agents and observers indicated widespread malpractice in some polling units, including voter intimidation, ballot box snatching, and vote buying. The party expressed disappointment that such incidents were still being recorded despite repeated assurances by INEC and security agencies of a free, fair, and credible electoral process.

According to the ADC, these alleged irregularities not only undermine the credibility of the exercise but also erode public confidence in the electoral system ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party emphasized that democracy can only thrive when elections are conducted transparently and the votes of the people truly count.

“We cannot afford to continue with a culture where the will of the people is subverted through manipulation and malpractice,” the statement read. “We urge INEC to treat these reports with urgency by conducting a transparent investigation and holding those found culpable accountable.”

The ADC further called on civil society organizations, local and international observers, and other political stakeholders to take a keen interest in the matter, stressing that safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy requires collective responsibility.

While INEC has not yet formally responded to the allegations, the ADC maintained that addressing these concerns promptly would help restore faith in the commission’s ability to conduct credible elections in the future.