Atiku, Obi, Amaechi Lead Mass Protest at INEC, Accuse APC of Undermining Democracy

Nigeria’s political tension spilled onto the streets of Abuja as top opposition figures led a large-scale protest against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), accusing it of siding with the ruling party to weaken democracy.

The demonstration, tagged “Save Nigeria Democracy,” drew prominent leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, David Mark, Rauf Aregbesola, and Aminu Tambuwal.

Hundreds of supporters, including members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, joined the march, which began at Maitama Roundabout and moved toward INEC’s headquarters in the Federal Capital Territory.

Protesters accused the electoral body of acting in favour of the ruling All Progressives Congress, alleging efforts to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general election. Placards bearing messages such as “Hands off our courts” and “Judges must give justice” highlighted concerns over judicial independence and electoral fairness.

Addressing supporters from a moving vehicle, Amaechi urged continued resistance, while Atiku shared images from the protest, describing it as a peaceful stand against what he called “partisanship” by the electoral umpire.

“Our patriotic stance is aimed at safeguarding our democracy and preventing the enthronement of a dictatorship,” Atiku said.

Earlier, Obi had mobilised Nigerians to participate, calling on citizens who believe in unity, peace, and democratic values to defend the country’s political system. He warned against any attempt to turn Nigeria into a one-party state.

The protest comes amid a deepening dispute between INEC and the ADC over leadership recognition, a crisis that has intensified political friction and raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process ahead of 2027.

While INEC has yet to formally respond to the protest, the demonstration underscores growing distrust between opposition parties and the electoral body — a development that could shape Nigeria’s political landscape in the months ahead.