“Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, David Mark, Rotimi Amaechi, and other prominent opposition figures led a massive protest, dubbed “#OccupyINEC”, at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, on April 8, 2026. The protest was in response to INEC’s decision to withdraw recognition of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) leadership, citing a Court of Appeal ruling.
The protesters, including Rabiu Kwankwaso, Rauf Aregbesola, and Dino Melaye, demanded that INEC respects the party’s internal democracy and recognizes the leadership headed by David Mark. They carried placards with messages like “Tinubu, why are you afraid?”, “Judges must give justice”, and “Let democracy breathe”.
Atiku Abubakar stated that the protest aimed to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy and prevent authoritarianism. Peter Obi emphasized the need to protect democratic values, while Rotimi Amaechi urged Nigerians to defend their future and resist political manipulation.
The ADC alleges that INEC’s decision is part of a broader effort to prevent the party from participating in the 2027 general election. The party’s spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, described the situation as a “dangerous contradiction” and urged INEC to reverse its stance.
The protest highlights growing concerns about INEC’s impartiality and the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.