The Obidient Movement has announced plans for a nationwide protest tagged #OccupyINEC, citing growing concerns over the state of Nigeria’s democracy and the credibility of key national institutions.
In a statement released on Thursday, the group said Nigeria is at a critical juncture where “silence becomes dangerous and inaction becomes complicity,” warning that recent developments suggest the country’s democratic foundations are under strain.
The movement expressed concerns about the perceived lack of neutrality of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), alleging that the electoral body is increasingly viewed as compromised under the current administration. It also raised alarm over what it described as mounting pressure on opposition voices, warning that such developments could threaten Nigeria’s multi-party democratic system.
According to the statement, the erosion of institutional credibility poses a direct risk to the will of the people, stressing that citizens have a responsibility to act when democratic structures are weakened.
Key Demands
The group outlined several demands, including:
- The resignation of the INEC Chairman over alleged abuse of office and loss of public trust
- An end to what it described as political persecution and harassment of opposition figures
- Protection of Nigeria’s multi-party democracy
- Respect for the autonomy of political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC)
Planned Protests
The Obidient Movement said the protests will be peaceful and coordinated across all states and the Federal Capital Territory. In Abuja, demonstrators are expected to gather at the ADC National Headquarters before proceeding on a march to the INEC Headquarters. Specific details regarding the date and time of the Abuja protest are expected to be announced later.
The group emphasized that the protest is not driven by anger but by a sense of civic duty to safeguard Nigeria’s democratic future. It called on Nigerians across political affiliations to participate in what it described as a collective effort to defend democratic values.
Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful and lawful engagement, the movement warned against the emergence of a one-party state, insisting that it will continue to advocate for credible elections and accountable leadership.
“This moment goes beyond party lines,” the statement said. “It is about the survival of democratic values and the protection of the Nigerian state itself.”
