Leaders and supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) took to the streets of Abuja on Wednesday in a large-scale protest against decisions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which they claim threaten democratic principles and party independence.
The demonstration, held under the banner #OccupyINEC, drew a strong presence of opposition figures and political stakeholders to Maitama Roundabout.
Among those in attendance were former presidential candidates and prominent politicians such as Rotimi Amaechi, Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Rauf Aregbesola, Aminu Tambuwal, and Dino Melaye. Hundreds of supporters from the Kwankwasiyya movement also joined the rally.
In a symbolic show of defiance, protesters sang Nigeria’s former national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots!”, which was officially replaced on 29 May 2024 with the 1960 independence anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” The ADC later described the gesture as a deliberate act of resistance.
Demonstrators carried placards expressing support for Senator David Mark, with messages such as “In David Mark’s NWC we trust” prominently displayed.
Speaking during the protest, Peter Obi addressed the crowd on behalf of ADC members and allied opposition leaders, calling on Nigerians
to rise in defence of democratic values.“We, members and leaders of the ADC, alongside other well-meaning Nigerians, are saying that our democracy must not be destroyed,” he stated.
“We reject any move towards a one-party system and urge all citizens who believe in unity, peace, and national security to stand up and defend democracy.”
The protest follows INEC’s recent decision to suspend recognition of correspondence from both factions of the ADC leadership, led by Senator David Mark and Nafiu Bala, after a Court of Appeal ruling on the party’s internal dispute.
Opposition leaders have criticised the move, describing it as an overreach that undermines party autonomy and interferes in internal political affairs.
Earlier, Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, said the protest was aimed at mobilising Nigerians to resist what he described as growing interference in opposition politics.
According to him, many citizens are increasingly concerned about INEC’s role, accusing the commission of acting beyond its mandate and contributing to divisions within opposition ranks.
Despite the tensions, organisers maintained that the protest remained peaceful, emphasising their commitment to lawful civic engagement while pressing their demands.
