By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina Times, April 5, 2026
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Katsina State has criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its handling of the party’s leadership dispute, describing the commission’s interpretation of a recent court ruling as “mischievous and wrong.”
The State Chairman of the party, Lawal Tukur Batagarawa, stated this on Sunday during a press briefing in Katsina.
Batagarawa said INEC’s decision to remove the party’s leadership from its portal followed a Court of Appeal ruling on an internal leadership tussle, but alleged that the commission misinterpreted the judgment.
He said the party’s national leadership, in consultation with its legal team, had resolved to challenge INEC’s action in court.
“We are confident that INEC’s interpretation is wrong, and we will seek redress in a court of competent jurisdiction,” he said.
The ADC chairman, however, said the party would not be distracted by the development, noting that preparations for the 2027 general elections were ongoing.
He added that all scheduled party activities, including ward, local government and state congresses, as well as the national convention slated for April 14, would proceed as planned.
Batagarawa said the Katsina State chapter of the party had aligned with the national leadership on the matter and would go ahead with preparations for the congresses.
He disclosed that the state leadership would meet on Tuesday to finalise arrangements for the exercise.
Meanwhile, the party expressed concern over rising insecurity in parts of Katsina State and other northern states.
Batagarawa condoled with residents of Matazu, Dankawari and Sayaya communities over recent attacks by suspected bandits.
He described the killings of security personnel and civilians in the affected areas as “sad and disturbing,” noting that the incidents reflected the worsening security situation in the region.
The ADC called on the federal and state governments to intensify efforts to secure lives and property, stressing that security remains the primary responsibility of government.
He warned that failure to address insecurity could undermine social stability and development, adding that the party was committed to tackling the challenge if given the mandate.
The party also offered prayers for the victims and their families.
