A coalition of opposition figures, including prominent Nigerian politicians Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, David Mark, and Rauf Aregbesola, on Wednesday led a protest in Abuja over allegations of electoral bias and growing concerns about Nigeria’s democratic process.
The demonstration, which began at Maitama Roundabout in the Federal Capital Territory, is expected to culminate at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The protesters accused the electoral body of acting in favour of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and undermining democratic institutions in the country.
Some demonstrators were seen carrying placards with various inscriptions, including messages such as “Hands Off Our Courts,” as they marched through the streets of Abuja in a tightly coordinated procession.
Former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi was observed addressing protesters from a vehicle as the crowd moved through the capital.
Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar shared updates on his X handle, posting clips of the protest and reaffirming the group’s position.
“Myself and other leaders of the ADC are peacefully protesting against the partisanship of the electoral umpire,” Atiku wrote. “Our patriotic stance is aimed at safeguarding our democracy and preventing the enthronement of a dictatorship.”
Atiku also called on “well-meaning Nigerians, lovers of democracy” to join the protest, warning against what he described as a drift toward a one-party system. His remarks were echoed by Peter Obi, who also took to social media to mobilise supporters.
“We say NO to a one-party system, and for that today we’re calling out Nigerians who believe in the unity, peace, and security of our country to join us as we defend democracy in our land,” Obi stated.
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Photographs and videos shared online showed Obi, Kwankwaso, and other opposition leaders holding a banner that read: “Tinubu, Let Our Democracy Breathe.”
The protest comes amid internal tensions within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), following disputes over the party’s leadership.
The Independent National Electoral Commission recently declined recognition of certain factions within the party, citing a Court of Appeal judgment delivered on March 12.
INEC stated that it would not recognise either the Nafiu Bala or David Mark-led groups within the party structure.
The development has further deepened divisions, with competing factions trading blame over the party’s internal crisis.
While Bala accused former party leadership of imposing executives without proper consultation, state chairmen of the ADC have rejected both factions, backing INEC’s position and accusing them of hijacking the party structure.
As the political tensions continue to unfold, the Abuja protest has added another layer to the ongoing debate over opposition unity, electoral credibility, and Nigeria’s democratic trajectory.