The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced plans to take down the names of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by David Mark from its official portal, in line with a directive of the Court of Appeal.

The commission made this known in a statement issued on Wednesday, noting that it would revert to the status quo ante bellum until a substantive suit currently before the Federal High Court in Abuja is determined.

The development comes amid a prolonged leadership dispute within the ADC, as factions loyal to Nafiu Bala Gombe and David Mark continue to assert control over the party’s national leadership.

INEC said the Court of Appeal, in a judgment delivered on March 12, 2026, instructed all parties to preserve the situation that existed before the dispute and avoid any action that could compromise the outcome of the case.

“That the Commission would, in accordance with the Order of the Court of Appeal in Appeal No. CA/ABJ/145/2026 refrain from taking any step or doing any act capable of foisting a fait accompli on the court or otherwise rendering nugatory the proceedings before the trial court, having regard to all the processes filed before the trial Court,” the statement read.

Providing further context, INEC explained that although it uploaded the names of the current NWC members on September 9, 2025, the legal action challenging the leadership had already been filed on September 2, 2025.

Consequently, the commission stated that it would now comply fully with the appellate court’s directive by removing the names pending the court’s final decision.

“Since the names of the current National Working Committee members led by Senator David Mark were uploaded on 9th September, 2025 by INEC (7 days after the suit was instituted), the names would be removed from the INEC portal pursuant to the order of the Court of Appeal to maintain the status quo ante bellum until the matter is decided by the trial court,” INEC said.

INEC also turned down a request from Bala’s faction seeking his recognition as acting national chairman, stressing that granting such recognition would run contrary to the court’s order.

In addition, the commission said it would suspend all forms of engagement with the party’s factions—including monitoring of meetings, congresses, or conventions—until the court resolves the matter.

“The Commission shall not receive any further communication or deal with any of the parties or groups pertaining to the affairs of the party,” it added.

Reaffirming its neutrality, INEC emphasized its commitment to abiding strictly by judicial pronouncements and cautioned political stakeholders against actions that could disrupt preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The crisis within the ADC has led to multiple court cases, with rival factions seeking legal backing to establish control over the party’s structure.

Trustbase News learnt that the Electoral umpire has however complied with their resolution and have removed the names of the ADC NWC led by Senator David Mark as at the time of filling this news .