‘Don’t kill democracy’ — Obi, Amaechi reject ‘one-party’ rule

By Luminous Jannamike, ABUJA

Opposition figures on Wednesday warned against what they described as a slide toward a one-party rule, as they led a peaceful #OccupyINEC protest in the nation’s capital, calling on the government to protect Nigeria’s democracy.

The protest, held at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), brought together opposition political leaders and supporters who say they are increasingly worried about the direction of the country’s democracy and the credibility of the electoral process ahead of the 2027 elections.

“We are simply holding a peaceful demonstration to say that we cannot have a one-party system in our country. It is a democratic nation. We are appealing to those in government: do not destroy our democracy. We need it for our children and for generations to come. Nigerians must have the freedom to choose who leads them. This is critical for our country,” Peter Obi, Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, said, speaking on the sidelines of the protest.

Former Minister of Transportation and ex-Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, addressed the crowd, taking aim at the current administration.

“Imagine a president who came to power and the first thing he did was to change the national anthem… and gave us hunger. He said he would give us roads; up till now, they have not given us roads. The money is gone. By the grace of God, they will lose the election,” Amaechi said.

Organisers say the protest is part of a wider effort by opposition figures and civic groups to defend democratic institutions and ensure credible elections.

They maintained that the demonstration remained peaceful, even as security operatives, who were clearly outnumbered, kept watch around the INEC complex.