Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Abuja, Nigeria — In a dramatic political protest on Wednesday, Barrister Dino Melaye led hundreds of members and supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Abuja, opposing the commission’s recent derecognition of the party’s leadership. The demonstration, staged under the banner “Save Our Democracy,” featured a symbolic act in which Melaye and demonstrators sang Nigeria’s former national anthem, “Arise O Compatriots,” reflecting their call to defend democratic values and political pluralism.
The protest began at Freedom Park and proceeded toward INEC’s central office. Melaye, a former senator, addressed the crowd from a mobile platform, urging participants to use the anthem to signal patriotic defiance against what organisers described as actions undermining Nigeria’s democratic process. The crowd included political allies, grassroots activists, and supporters from various opposition movements.
The ADC’s grievance stems from INEC’s removal of its recognised leadership, led by former Senate President David Mark and ex-Minister Rauf Aregbesola, following a judicial dispute over the party’s internal leadership. INEC stated its action was in compliance with a Court of Appeal directive to maintain the status quo until a final court ruling is issued. The commission said it cannot recognise any faction until judicial clarity is provided.
ADC officials reject this explanation, arguing that INEC’s refusal to accept official correspondence, including notices for party congresses and preparations for elections, could prevent the party from meeting statutory deadlines required to participate in the 2027 general elections. Party leaders warned that this effectively sidelines the ADC from Nigeria’s political process, potentially violating democratic principles.
The current dispute originated in July 2025, when a National Executive Committee meeting produced new leadership under Senator David Mark. INEC initially recognised this leadership, but rival factions led by former deputy national chairman Nafiu Bala Gombe challenged it in court, resulting in prolonged litigation. ADC leaders claim that INEC’s current position could prevent the party from submitting candidates and fulfilling legal requirements ahead of elections.
The protest attracted support from high-profile opposition figures and civil society allies. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar expressed solidarity, emphasising the need to defend democratic institutions. Activists from groups such as the Obidient Movement and Kwankwasiyya faction joined the demonstration, highlighting broad-based concerns over the electoral commission’s decision.
Earlier in the week, the ADC youth wing issued a 72-hour ultimatum to INEC, demanding reinstatement of the recognised leadership or threatening coordinated nationwide civic action. The youth leaders described the commission’s actions as exceeding its constitutional authority, insisting that only the courts can interpret judicial orders related to party leadership disputes.
Opposition figures accused INEC of partisanship, alleging that the derecognition benefits dominant political forces ahead of the 2027 elections. Meanwhile, a separate group held a march supporting INEC’s actions, emphasising respect for judicial processes and the rule of law, demonstrating contrasting public perspectives on the electoral body’s role in resolving internal party conflicts.
In response to criticism, the ADC released an affidavit from INEC dated September 2025, confirming the previously recognised leadership under Mark and Aregbesola. The party maintains that this demonstrates INEC’s earlier acceptance of its leadership and strengthens their case that the current derecognition is unjustified. Officials warned that perceived bias by the commission could weaken public trust in Nigeria’s democratic framework.
ADC leaders have pledged to continue their campaign through legal, civic, and public channels, insisting that their participation in the 2027 elections must not be jeopardised by administrative or procedural disputes. The unfolding situation remains closely watched, with the courts expected to provide clarity on the leadership question and INEC’s role in party recognition.
The protest marks one of the most significant confrontations between an opposition party and the electoral commission in recent years, reflecting intensifying scrutiny of institutional independence and fairness as Nigeria approaches its next general elections.
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