Nigeria’s Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has suspended the Action Democratic Party (ADP) over its refusal to sign the council’s binding constitution, escalating tensions within the nation’s coalition of political parties.
The suspension was confirmed in a letter issued by IPAC National Secretary, Barrister Maxwell Mgbudem, following an emergency session of the council’s General Assembly held on 1 August 2025 in Abuja.
“The Action Democratic Party is hereby suspended from all activities of the Council,” the letter read. Mgbudem explained the move was prompted by ADP’s “deliberate refusal” to endorse the council’s constitution, which outlines the rules and responsibilities of all member parties.
He stated that ADP could not continue to take part in IPAC engagements while disregarding the principles and legal framework underpinning the council. The letter also directed all ADP representatives holding leadership positions within IPAC at state level to vacate their posts immediately.
Mgbudem reaffirmed IPAC’s duty to safeguard its constitution and promote responsible inter-party collaboration, discipline and credibility in Nigeria’s political system.
Responding to the development, ADP National Chairman, Alhaji Yabagi Sani, dismissed the suspension as inconsequential. He argued that IPAC is not a statutory body. “IPAC is a voluntary group—membership is not compulsory. They can make any decision they want, but it has no bearing on us. They are not registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission and have no legal authority,” he said.
