Atiku, Obi, Amaechi, Kwankwaso Lead ‘Save Democracy’ Protest Against INEC in Abuja

ADC leaders accuse electoral commission of partisanship amid deepening party crisis and 2027 political tensions

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By Umar Baba & Berira Musa
Abuja, Nigeria — April 8, 2026

Leading figures of Nigeria’s opposition bloc on Wednesday staged a high-profile protest in Abuja, accusing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of partisanship and actions capable of undermining the country’s democratic process.

Among those who led the “Save Nigeria Democracy” march were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi, ex-Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, former Senate President David Mark, ex-Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola, and former Sokoto State governor Aminu Tambuwal.

Mass Protest Hits Abuja Streets

The protest, organised under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), began at Maitama Roundabout and proceeded to the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission.

Hundreds of supporters, including members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, joined the march, carrying placards with inscriptions such as “Hands off our courts” and “Judges must give justice.”

Allegations of Electoral Bias

The protesters accused INEC of aligning with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to weaken opposition parties and erode democratic institutions.

In a statement shared on social media, Atiku said the demonstration was a “peaceful protest against the partisanship of the electoral umpire,” adding that it was aimed at preventing what he described as the emergence of authoritarian governance.

Similarly, Obi called on Nigerians to resist any move toward a one-party state, urging citizens to defend democratic values and national unity.

Amaechi was seen addressing protesters from a moving vehicle, while other party leaders joined in chanting and displaying banners critical of the current political climate.

ADC Crisis Deepens

The protest comes against the backdrop of a deepening leadership crisis within the ADC, which has been exacerbated by INEC’s recent decision to derecognise factions within the party.

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The electoral body cited a Court of Appeal judgment delivered on March 12 in its decision not to recognise both the faction led by David Mark and that associated with Nafiu Bala, pending the resolution of ongoing litigation.

However, the move has sparked internal divisions, with state chairmen of the party rejecting both factions and backing INEC’s stance.

Rising Political Tensions Ahead of 2027

The unfolding developments highlight growing political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections, as opposition figures intensify criticism of the electoral system and seek to consolidate their positions.

Tambuwal described the protest as a collective effort to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy and ensure that elections remain credible, transparent, and fair.

“Our stance is not just political; it is a duty to protect the integrity of our nation and preserve the will of the people,” he stated.

Calls for Electoral Integrity

Observers say the protest underscores broader concerns about electoral transparency, institutional independence, and the credibility of Nigeria’s democratic process.

With legal battles ongoing and political alignments shifting, analysts warn that the coming months could prove decisive in shaping the trajectory of Nigeria’s electoral landscape.