The All Progressives Congress (APC) has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, arguing that Nigeria’s ballot papers should not be overcrowded with political parties lacking electoral relevance.

The APC National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, made the call during an interview on Arise Television on Friday. According to him, political parties that fail to meet constitutional and electoral performance thresholds should not remain on the list of parties eligible to contest elections.

Basiru stated that the ruling party’s request was based on the need to streamline Nigeria’s electoral process and ensure compliance with the law guiding political party registration and participation. He argued that keeping inactive or non-performing parties on the ballot only complicates voting and weakens the system.

“We are calling on INEC to deregister the ADC. We don’t want ballot papers to be clustered with unviable political parties,” Basiru said while defending the APC’s position.

He maintained that the APC’s stance was not aimed at suppressing opposition parties but rather encouraging adherence to constitutional provisions that allow INEC to deregister parties that fail to meet certain electoral benchmarks.

Basiru also dismissed concerns that Nigeria might be drifting toward a one-party state, noting that the country still has several registered political parties capable of participating in the democratic process.

The APC official further cited the ADC’s recent internal crisis and poor performance in elections as reasons the electoral commission should review its status. According to him, the party has failed to demonstrate meaningful electoral strength or grassroots support in recent contests.

The call comes amid growing political tension surrounding the ADC following disputes over its leadership structure and disagreements involving INEC’s interpretation of court rulings related to the party.

Meanwhile, the ADC has rejected claims that it should be deregistered and has accused the electoral commission of acting under pressure from political actors, insisting it remains a legitimate opposition party in Nigeria’s democratic system.

The debate is expected to intensify as political parties begin preparations for the 2027 general elections, with electoral reforms and party registration rules likely to remain a major issue in Nigeria’s political landscape.