Femi Falana exposes bias by SAN-led INEC against Nigeria’s only opposition, ADC
*Says “They used ante bellum” to deceive us; what it means is who was in charge before”
By KEMI KASUMU
In his reaction, Falana explained that the Latin phrase “status quo ante bellum,” which translates to “the state of affairs before the conflict,” carries a clear legal meaning that appears to have been misapplied in this instance.
A fresh controversy has emerged in Nigeria’s political and legal space following remarks by prominent lawyer and human rights advocate Femi Falana, who criticized the handling of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) leadership dispute by what he called the Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN)-led Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Falana’s comments were captured in a video shared on the official X account of Sahara Reporters, where he strongly questioned INEC’s interpretation and application of the legal doctrine “status quo ante bellum” in resolving the ongoing crisis within the ADC.
His remarks come amid heightened public attention after INEC removed the names of certain ADC leaders from its official portal—an action that has fueled widespread debate across political and social platforms.
In his reaction, Falana explained that the Latin phrase “status quo ante bellum,” which translates to “the state of affairs before the conflict,” carries a clear legal meaning that appears to have been misapplied in this instance.
According to him, the doctrine is intended to restore parties to their original positions prior to the emergence of a dispute, not to alter existing structures in a way that benefits one side.
He argued that, in the case of the ADC, the principle should have preserved the party’s leadership arrangement as it existed before the internal disagreement began. Falana specifically pointed to the leadership role held prior to the crisis, insisting that any deviation from that baseline represents a distortion of the doctrine.
Expressing concern, the senior lawyer stated that the interpretation adopted by INEC creates the impression of bias, suggesting that the commission’s actions may inadvertently or otherwise favor powerful political interests. He warned that such a move undermines confidence in the neutrality of the electoral body.
Falana further emphasized that legal doctrines like “status quo ante bellum” are designed to ensure fairness and stability during disputes, particularly in politically sensitive situations. Misinterpreting such principles, he said, not only misleads the public but also weakens the foundations of the rule of law.
The ADC has been grappling with a prolonged leadership tussle, with competing factions laying claim to control over the party’s structure and resources.
INEC’s decision to remove certain names from its records has been widely viewed as a significant development in the conflict, with implications for which faction holds administrative advantage.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH VIDEO FROM 0:50 to 1:16
