ADC Warns New APC Chairman Against Using INEC Experience For Election Bias

The African Democratic Congress has urged the newly appointed National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, to resist any attempt to manipulate the electoral process using his past experience as a Resident Electoral Commissioner.

The ADC made this call shortly after Yilwatda’s confirmation as APC chairman, a position that has changed hands four times in just two years.

The warning came as part of a congratulatory message to Yilwatda, whose background in electoral management gives him deep knowledge of Nigeria’s voting system. While acknowledging this, the ADC stressed that such expertise should serve the country’s democracy rather than give undue advantage to the ruling party. The party said Nigerians expect a chairman who understands fairness, transparency, and public trust.

The ADC’s concern is rooted in what it describes as repeated cases of electoral abuse under the APC. It said that past actions by the ruling party have weakened public confidence and narrowed the space for genuine opposition. The ADC said this new appointment offers a chance for the APC to change its approach and adopt a more democratic attitude moving forward.

Another point of criticism was the venue of the APC’s National Executive Committee meeting, which took place inside the State House. That same meeting ratified Yilwatda’s appointment. The ADC described the move as a misuse of public facilities for party matters, warning that it sends the wrong message about the separation between government and political organizations.

The party expressed concern that hosting a party meeting within the seat of government creates confusion about the boundaries between national duty and partisan politics. It said this development is worrying and a clear deviation from the principles of democratic accountability.

The ADC said the change in APC leadership should not just be a rotation of faces but an opportunity to steer the party away from a pattern of propaganda and abuse of power. It challenged Yilwatda to lead differently and rebuild public trust in both his party and the wider political system.

As the new chairman begins his tenure, the ADC said it hopes he will stay longer than his recent predecessors, many of whom left office under controversial circumstances. The party also expressed hope that his exit—when it comes—will be marked by dignity and not scandal.

The ADC ended its message with a call for responsible leadership, warning that the country’s democratic future depends on how party leaders conduct themselves. It reminded the APC that Nigerians are watching closely, and that the credibility of elections depends not just on laws, but on the people entrusted with power.