Tension rose in Abuja as top Nigerian political heavyweights — Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Kwankwaso — stormed the office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in a bold protest against recent electoral decisions.
The demonstration, tagged #OccupyINEC, saw a strong turnout of opposition figures and supporters, including Rotimi Amaechi, Rauf Aregbesola, Aminu Tambuwal, and Dino Melaye.
Defiance in Song and Message
In a symbolic move, protesters sang Nigeria’s former national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots!”, despite its replacement in 2024 by “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) described the act as intentional resistance, signaling dissatisfaction with the current political direction.
“Our Democracy Must Not Be Killed”
Addressing the crowd, Peter Obi delivered a strong message on behalf of opposition leaders:
“We are saying that our democracy must not be killed.”
Placards seen at the protest also showed support for David Mark, with messages backing his leadership within the party’s structure.
Rising Political Tension
The protest highlights growing unrest among opposition parties, as calls for transparency, fairness, and protection of Nigeria’s democratic process continue to intensify.
With major political figures now taking their grievances directly to INEC, many Nigerians are watching closely — is this the beginning of a larger political showdown?
