Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso, Others Spearhead Massive ADC Protest Against INEC Over Leadership Snub

By Emmanuel Kwada

Prominent opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party leader Peter Obi, former Kano Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, ex-Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola, former Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi, and ex-Sokoto Governor Aminu Tambuwal, on Wednesday led a high-stakes protest and press conference in Abuja against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The coalition-backed leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) decried INEC’s decision to delist Senator David Mark as National Chairman and Aregbesola as National Secretary from its official portal, effectively freezing recognition of the party’s leadership amid an internal crisis.

The dramatic gathering at the Yar’Adua Centre followed reports of INEC’s move, which stems from a Court of Appeal order directing the commission to maintain the status quo ante bellum in a leadership suit filed by a rival faction led by Nafiu Bala.

INEC removed the names of Mark and other National Working Committee (NWC) members, citing the need to avoid recognising any faction until the Federal High Court delivers a final judgment.

Sources at the event described the atmosphere as charged, with protesters brandishing banners reading “Tinubu, Let Democracy Breathe” and chants of “Tinubu must go” echoing through the venue. Party leaders argued that INEC’s action represents an assault on multiparty democracy and could pave the way for a de facto one-party state ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Senator David Mark, who assumed the role of interim National Chairman after a July 2025 NEC meeting where pioneer chairman Ralph Nwosu handed over the baton, insisted there was no legal basis for INEC’s delisting.

“We have approached the courts to seek clarity,” Mark reportedly stated, warning that the commission misinterpreted the appellate ruling.

Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Kwankwaso — key figures in the opposition coalition that adopted the ADC platform — were seen coordinating at Atiku’s residence before heading to the press conference. Aregbesola, Amaechi, and Tambuwal also featured prominently, underscoring the breadth of support for the Mark-led faction.

The protest gained further momentum as the ADC National Youth Leader issued a 72-hour ultimatum to INEC, demanding immediate restoration of the Mark-led leadership, a public apology, and cessation of actions based on pending court processes.

Failure to comply, the youths warned, would trigger massive nationwide protests across all 36 states and the FCT, in collaboration with civil society groups. Some Obidient movement elements have even called for the resignation of INEC Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan.

The ADC leadership tussle has intensified in recent days. A rival group of state chairmen has emerged, rejecting the Mark-led NWC and throwing its weight behind INEC’s decision.

They described the Mark faction as an “invasion” and announced plans for an interim leadership and national convention. INEC has maintained it will not monitor any congresses or conventions by either side until the matter is resolved in court.

Political analysts view the standoff as a major test for Nigeria’s electoral umpire and the opposition’s ability to present a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of 2027. With the deadline for party membership registration and primaries looming, the crisis threatens to paralyse the ADC’s preparations.

As the protest unfolded, calls grew louder for INEC to exercise caution and uphold the principles of fairness and independence. Party chieftains vowed to pursue all legal avenues while mobilising supporters to defend what they describe as the soul of Nigeria’s democracy.

The situation remains fluid, with both factions digging in and the courts expected to provide definitive direction in the coming weeks.