Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has said the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was justified in refusing to recognise any faction within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) amid its ongoing leadership crisis.

Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja on Friday, Wike stated that the party should consider INEC’s position a fair outcome pending the resolution of internal disputes in court.

He, however, expressed the view that INEC could have recognised Nafiu Bala Gombe as the party’s National Chairman based on the prevailing legal interpretations.

“In my own opinion, INEC, by that judgment, ought to have recognised Bala Gombe as the ADC national chairman,” Wike said.

He added, “ADC should be happy that INEC said, ‘Look, we are not going to recognise any of you until you sort your matter in court.’”

INEC had earlier removed the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its official portal as National Chairman and National Secretary of the ADC, respectively.

The commission also declined to recognise Bala Gombe, who is seeking to be affirmed as chairman through ongoing litigation.

As part of its directive, INEC announced that it would suspend recognition of all factions within the party and refrain from monitoring any congresses or conventions organised by rival groups until the Federal High Court delivers a final ruling on the matter.

The development has further deepened tensions within the ADC, which is currently preparing for the 2027 general elections.

Reacting to the situation, the party accused INEC of violating the law and taking sides in its internal leadership dispute.