Leaders and supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) staged a major protest at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, presenting a six-point set of demands while warning against threats to Nigeria’s democracy.
The rally, tagged #OccupyINEC, drew prominent figures, including former Senate President David Mark, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-presidents of state governments Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Rotimi Amaechi, Rauf Aregbesola, and former senator Dino Melaye. Hundreds of supporters from different political movements joined, creating a broad coalition focused on defending democratic norms.
Opposition Warns Against One-Party Rule
Addressing protesters, Peter Obi urged Nigerians to defend the country’s democracy, stating:
“We must not allow democracy to be destroyed. Nigeria cannot become a one-party state. All lovers of peace and unity must join in its defence.”
Rotimi Amaechi also criticised the current administration for governance failures, arguing that voters would hold leaders accountable at the ballot box.
Protest Sparked by INEC Decision
The demonstration followed INEC’s refusal to recognise communications from rival ADC factions, led by David Mark and Nafiu Bala Gombe, following a Court of Appeal ruling. ADC leaders described the move as interference in the party’s internal affairs and a threat to electoral fairness.
Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, said the protest was intended to mobilise Nigerians to defend democratic institutions and challenge electoral malpractice.
ADC’s Six-Point Demands
During the protest, the party called for:
- Immediate resignation or removal of INEC Chairman Professor Joseph Amupitan
- Withdrawal of offensive correspondence sent to the ADC
- Formal apology from INEC
- A commitment to non-interference in internal party affairs
- Enforcement through judicial action if ignored
- Coordinated civic mobilisation to ensure accountability
The ADC accused INEC of partisanship and overstepping its constitutional mandate by publicly interpreting court rulings, warning that such actions endanger Nigeria’s multi-party system.
Broad Coalition and Nationwide Concern
The protest grew into a multi-party coalition, with participants arriving from across Nigeria. Many gathered initially at David Mark’s residence for a morning service marking his 78th birthday before marching toward INEC headquarters, swelling the crowd along major roads in the Federal Capital Territory.
David Mark Assures Party Members
Speaking at the birthday service, David Mark reassured ADC members that internal tensions were manageable, calling them a natural part of party growth.
“There is no cause for alarm. Challenges are part of strengthening our institution. Our commitment to democracy and national development remains unwavering.”
Allegations of INEC Bias
Former lawmaker Kabiru Marafa accused INEC of lacking neutrality, claiming its leadership is dominated by members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which threatens fair competition ahead of the 2027 elections. He warned that attempts to create a one-party system would fail due to Nigeria’s political diversity.
Opposition Collaboration
Leaders of the ADC and factions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) held closed-door discussions at David Mark’s residence, signalling growing coordination among opposition parties ahead of future elections.
The ADC reiterated that if INEC ignores its demands, it will pursue legal action and sustained civic engagement, emphasising that the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy must not be compromised.
