Leaders and members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Tuesday took to the streets of Abuja in a high-profile protest against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), accusing the electoral body of actions they described as detrimental to Nigeria’s democracy.
The protest, which was tagged #OccupyINEC, drew a large crowd of party loyalists, supporters and prominent political figures, who converged at the Maitama Roundabout before proceeding with their demonstration. The gathering quickly attracted public attention, both for its scale and the calibre of political actors in attendance.
Among those present were former Senate President, David Mark; former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar; former Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola; Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi; former Kano State governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso; and ex-Kogi West senator, Dino Melaye. Their presence lent significant weight to the demonstration and underscored the seriousness of the grievances raised by the party.
At the centre of the protest was a demand for the resignation or removal of the INEC Chairman, Joseph Amupitan. The ADC accused him of partisanship, constitutional violations and undue interference in the internal affairs of the party, allegations that formed the core of the protest’s messaging.
Addressing supporters during the demonstration, ADC leaders expressed concern over what they described as a growing pattern of actions by INEC that could undermine its neutrality as an electoral umpire. They argued that recent developments had raised questions about the commission’s independence and its commitment to upholding democratic principles.
In a strongly worded statement directed at the INEC chairman, the party criticised a recent media interview granted by Amupitan, describing it as inappropriate for someone occupying such a high office.
“Your recent media interview was not only disgraceful and unbecoming of the high office you occupy, but it also exposed a troubling willingness to descend into partisan controversy,” the party stated.
The ADC further contended that the controversy stemmed from what it viewed as the chairman’s attempt to publicly interpret court rulings—an action it insisted falls strictly within the jurisdiction of the judiciary. According to the party, such conduct represents a serious breach of constitutional boundaries.
“The interpretation of court judgments is the exclusive preserve of the judiciary. For the Chairman of INEC to publicly assume that role amounts to a serious constitutional breach,” the statement added.
The party also raised concerns about recent communications it had received from INEC, which it claimed had heightened suspicions that the commission might no longer be acting as an impartial arbiter. It warned that such perceptions could erode public trust in the electoral process and weaken the credibility of democratic institutions.
“This is not only improper; it is dangerous for the credibility of our electoral system,” the party warned.
Providing further context to its claims, ADC leaders referenced a series of internal processes conducted in 2025, including National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings that produced the current leadership structure under David Mark. The party maintained that these processes were transparent and conducted in accordance with its constitution, with INEC officials present as observers.
According to the ADC, the outcomes of those meetings were formally communicated to INEC, which acknowledged receipt and updated its records accordingly. The party also claimed that the commission had affirmed the legitimacy of the process in a sworn affidavit submitted before the Federal High Court.
However, the party alleged that there were now attempts to pressure certain officials to reverse their earlier positions regarding those developments. It described such alleged efforts as unacceptable and indicative of a troubling shift within the electoral body.
“We are aware of efforts being made to recant their testimonies which contradict the agenda you have decided to pursue. This is, indeed, unconscionable,” the party stated.
While acknowledging the contributions of some officials within INEC, the ADC insisted that the actions of the chairman had significantly damaged the reputation of the commission and undermined public confidence in its operations.
“But you have appeared willing to lay their sacrifices to waste, which today has effectively brought the commission into disrepute,” the statement continued.
As part of its demands, the party presented a six-point list of conditions it expects INEC to meet. These include the immediate resignation or removal of the chairman, the withdrawal of what it described as “offensive” correspondence sent to the party, and a formal apology from the commission.
The ADC also called on INEC to reaffirm its commitment to non-interference in the internal affairs of political parties, stressing that such independence is essential for the proper functioning of Nigeria’s democratic system.
The party warned that failure to address its demands would prompt further action, including legal proceedings and intensified civic mobilisation. It emphasised that it is prepared to explore all lawful and constitutional avenues to ensure accountability.
“Take note that failure to comply will leave us with no option but to activate all lawful and constitutional mechanisms to ensure accountability,” the party declared.
It added that judicial action and coordinated protests could form part of its next steps if the situation remains unresolved.
“The integrity of Nigeria’s democracy cannot and will not be sacrificed on the altar of institutional compromise,” the party concluded.
The protest marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, highlighting growing tensions between political actors and the country’s electoral body as preparations for future elections continue to gather momentum.
