 has cautioned both the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security){kind=link}
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has cautioned both the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies against compromising today’s by-elections taking place across 16 states, warning that Nigerians will not forgive any act that undermines fairness.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the ADC Vanguard alleged that there were credible indications of plots by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to tilt the process in its favour through vote-buying, voter intimidation, and the misuse of state security personnel.
The party said such actions would amount to a betrayal of the democratic mandate of the Nigerian people and a deliberate attempt to silence their collective will.
“INEC must understand that its integrity is on the line,” the ADC warned. “Nigerians expect a transparent and credible process, and history will not be kind to the Commission if it allows manipulation.”
The party also reminded security agencies that their duty was to protect citizens and safeguard election materials, not to serve partisan interests.
It stressed that officers found aiding malpractice would be held accountable before the people and the international community.
According to the statement, the by-election goes beyond filling vacant legislative seats, as it represents an opportunity for Nigerians to reassert their commitment to democracy and to the principle that leadership must be decided at the ballot box.
The ADC further called on voters to turn out in large numbers, participate peacefully, and defend their right to choose their leaders.
It also vowed to monitor the polls closely and expose any attempt to manipulate the outcome.
“Our democracy cannot be for sale,” the party maintained. “We will document every violation and challenge it through every lawful channel.”