Leaders and supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) staged a massive protest in Abuja on Wednesday, presenting a six-point list of demands to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) while raising concerns over what they described as threats to Nigeria’s democracy.
The demonstration, tagged #OccupyINEC, attracted prominent political figures including former Senate President David Mark, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Rotimi Amaechi, Rauf Aregbesola, and Dino Melaye, among others. Hundreds of supporters from different political groups, including members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, also joined the rally.
Protesters converged on the Maitama axis and marched toward INEC headquarters despite heavy rainfall, chanting solidarity songs and displaying placards in support of democratic principles and party autonomy.
Opposition rejects one-party system
Addressing the crowd, Peter Obi warned against any attempt to undermine Nigeria’s multi-party democracy, urging citizens to rise in its defence.
“We must not allow our democracy to be destroyed. Nigeria cannot become a one-party state,” he said, calling on Nigerians to protect the country’s unity and democratic values.
Rotimi Amaechi also criticised the current administration, expressing dissatisfaction with governance and warning that voters would respond at the polls.
Protest driven by INEC decision
The protest followed INEC’s refusal to recognise communications from rival factions within the ADC leadership, citing a Court of Appeal ruling. Opposition leaders described the move as interference in internal party affairs and a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s electoral system.
Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, said the rally was aimed at mobilising Nigerians to defend democratic institutions.
ADC presents six demands
During the protest, ADC leaders outlined key demands directed at the electoral body:
- Immediate resignation or removal of the INEC Chairman
- Withdrawal of what the party described as “offensive” correspondence to the ADC
- Formal apology from INEC
- Commitment to non-interference in internal party matters
- Legal action if demands are ignored
- Nationwide civic mobilisation to ensure accountability
The party accused the INEC leadership of partisanship and overstepping its constitutional role, particularly in interpreting court rulings.
Growing coalition and nationwide concern
What began as a party-led protest evolved into a broader coalition movement, with participants from multiple political backgrounds joining the demonstration. Many travelled from across the country, highlighting widespread concern over the credibility of the electoral system ahead of the 2027 elections.
David Mark calls for calm
Amid internal tensions within the ADC, David Mark reassured party members that the situation remained under control. Speaking earlier at a church service marking his 78th birthday, he described the crisis as part of the party’s growth process.
“There is no cause for alarm. Challenges are part of building a stronger institution,” he said, reaffirming the party’s commitment to democracy and national development.
Allegations against INEC
Former lawmaker Kabiru Marafa also criticised the electoral body, alleging that its leadership lacks neutrality and warning against any attempt to impose a one-party system in Nigeria.
Political realignments underway
Meanwhile, key opposition figures from the ADC and factions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) held closed-door talks in Abuja, signalling ongoing efforts to build a stronger coalition ahead of future elections.
The ADC maintained that failure by INEC to address its demands would trigger legal action and sustained civic resistance, stressing that Nigeria’s democracy must be protected at all costs.
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