#OccupyINEC: Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso, others lead protest in Abuja + Video

Leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and opposition figures on Wednesday staged a protest in Abuja against decisions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The demonstration, tagged #OccupyINEC, drew prominent politicians including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Rotimi Amaechi, Rauf Aregbesola, Aminu Tambuwal and Dino Melaye to the Maitama Roundabout.

Hundreds of supporters, including members of the Kwankwasiyya movement, also participated.

Protesters sang Nigeria’s former national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots!”, in what the party described as an act of defiance.

Several demonstrators carried placards backing Senator David Mark, including messages expressing confidence in his leadership.

Addressing the crowd, Obi spoke on behalf of opposition leaders.

He said: “We, members and leaders of the ADC, and other well-meaning Nigerians, lovers of democracy, are saying that our democracy must not be killed.”

He added: “We say NO to a one-party system, and for that, today we’re calling out Nigerians who believe in unity, peace, and security of our country to join us as we defend democracy in our land.”

The protest follows INEC’s decision to stop recognising correspondence from factions of the ADC led by David Mark and Nafiu Bala after a Court of Appeal ruling on the party’s leadership dispute.

Opposition groups described the move as interference in internal party affairs.

National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, said the rally was aimed at mobilising Nigerians.

He said: “This commission is now becoming the arbiter, judge, accuser and defender at the same time.

“Our major issue is the manner in which INEC has been going about creating disaffection in the opposition.”

He added: “The people are really angry and plan to show this anger by coming out. 

“So, we’ll expect them to come out en masse for a peaceful rally. 

“Then we’ll just demonstrate and protest.”