Prominent political opposition figures, yesterday stormed the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja, to protest the non recognition of the Senator David Mark-led National Working Committee of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Vehicular and pedestrian movement around the commission’s headquarters was severely disrupted as demonstrators gathered despite steady rainfall.
The protest, initially linked to the ADC leadership crisis, evolved into a broader coalition rally drawing participants from multiple political parties and civil society groups.
Among the notable figures present were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi; former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso; former Osun State Governor and ex-Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola; former Senate President, David Mark; former Sokoto State Governor, Senator Aminu Tambuwal; former Rivers Governor Rotimi Amaechi; and former Kogi West Senator, Dino Melaye, alongside other political stakeholders.
The protesters had earlier assembled at Mark’s residence, where a brief morning service was held to mark his 78th birthday, before proceeding to the INEC headquarters. The procession, which began from the Apo Legislative Quarters, grew as more supporters joined along major roads in the Federal Capital Territory.
The protest comes amid heightened tensions following INEC’s decision to stop recognising the ADC leadership of Mark following a court ruling on the leadership dispute with Nafiu Bala.
Opposition leaders at the rally accused the electoral body of bias, alleging that its actions could pave the way for a one-party system in the country.
Protesters carried placards expressing support for Mark’s leadership, with inscriptions such as, “In David Mark’s NWC we trust.”
Addressing supporters in a post on X, Peter Obi called on Nigerians to defend democratic values and resist any attempt to undermine the country’s multi-party system.
Discover more from The STATESMAN Newspaper
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Post Disclaimer
THE STATESMAN NEWSPAPER make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the stories hereon as the statements are purely of the news makers.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from THE STATESMAN NEWSPAPER.
Contact:
