A political affairs analyst, Elvis Okolie, has cautioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) against interfering in the internal affairs of political parties, insisting that its role is limited to oversight rather than involvement in intra-party disputes.
Speaking on the ongoing crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Okolie likened INEC’s function to that of a referee in a football match, stressing that while the commission can monitor and enforce rules, it has no constitutional authority to dictate how political parties organize themselves or choose their leadership.
According to him, the ADC leadership had collectively agreed on internal restructuring, including the resignation of key officials to allow new leadership to emerge ahead of elections.
He argued that such decisions, having been ratified at the party’s National Executive Council meeting, remain valid regardless of dissent from individual members.
Okolie dismissed the position of a dissenting deputy chairman challenging the process, noting that personal disagreement does not override the collective will of the party.
He questioned the legitimacy of attempts to reverse decisions already taken, especially when other affected members had complied without اعتراض.
Okolie further raised concerns over what he described as attempts to manipulate the situation to destabilize the party.
He suggested that the crisis may not be entirely internal but influenced by external forces seeking to weaken opposition platforms.
On the legal dimension, Okolie urged caution in interpreting court rulings, particularly the principle of “status quo ante bellum.”
He argued that restoring the status quo should imply a return to the situation before the dispute, which could mean reversing all resignations and reinstating previous leadership structures.
Incessant defections
Beyond the ADC, Okolie expressed worry over broader trends in Nigeria’s political landscape, including increasing defections and what he described as the systematic weakening of opposition parties.
He cited internal crises in parties such as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party, warning that such developments threaten the integrity of democratic competition.
The political affairs commentator also criticized what he termed a growing culture of political survival, where politicians defect under pressure rather than uphold party ideology, thereby undermining the democratic process.
Acknowledging flaws within the ADC, Okolie faulted the party’s leadership for failing to properly integrate existing members during its restructuring.
He noted that a more inclusive approach could have prevented the current crisis.
The political scientist advised all parties involved to pursue reconciliation, dialogue, and compromise, emphasizing that democracy thrives on healthy competition, not coercion or manipulation.
Okolie concluded by urging INEC to remain neutral, respect due process, and allow the courts to determine the outcome of leadership disputes, warning that hasty or unclear decisions could deepen political uncertainty in the country.
