|By Chinwendu Nwani
A former presidential candidate of the Labour Party and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Peter Obi, has sharply criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), accusing the commission of being used by the government to stifle opposition voices.
Speaking during an interview on Prime Time on Arise TV Prime Time, Obi warned that any government committed to national progress must support, not suppress, a strong opposition.
He questioned what he described as a contradiction among political actors, noting that those who once condemned undemocratic practices are now allegedly deploying the same tactics through INEC to frustrate opposition parties.
Obi openly challenged INEC’s decision to withdraw recognition from the ADC leadership led by David Mark, suggesting that the move may not be entirely independent.
“Somebody is pushing this,” he declared, hinting at possible political interference behind the commission’s action.
While INEC insists its decision is based on legal considerations and subject to judicial determination, Obi dismissed the explanation as insufficient, stressing that the broader implications raise serious concerns for Nigeria’s democracy.
“They said they were obeying a court. That is one of the things that will be decided by a court,” he added.
Despite the ongoing leadership tussle rocking the ADC, Obi defended the party’s resolve to proceed with its planned national convention, describing INEC’s position as misguided.
“We believe that what they are doing is wrong,” he stated.
The former Anambra State governor also confirmed he would attend the convention scheduled for April 14, expressing confidence in the process despite regulatory uncertainty.
“I will definitely be there,” he affirmed.
On the possibility of INEC rejecting the outcome of the convention, Obi adopted a cautious tone, indicating that the matter may ultimately be settled in court.
Drawing from history, he cited the intervention of former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua during a crisis within All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), emphasizing that leadership should strengthen—not weaken—opposition structures in a democracy.
“If a government wants progress, it will support strong opposition,” he reiterated.
The unfolding crisis underscores deepening divisions within the ADC, as legal battles and political manoeuvres continue to shape the party’s future ahead of upcoming elections.
