Pro-INEC protesters rally in Abuja amid electoral law dispute
Tension rose in Abuja as supporters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) marched in solidarity, backing the commission despite controversy over the Electoral Act 2026. The demonstration, led by the Arewa Grassroots Leaders Assembly, aimed to commend INEC’s recent efforts and improvements. Collins Onogu, the group’s National President, praised the commission’s technological upgrades and commitment to credible elections. The protest unfolded as debates continued over the newly passed Electoral Act and changes to the 2027 election timetable.
What we know
- Demonstrators marched from the National Assembly complex to INEC headquarters, displaying placards in support of INEC and its chairman.
- The rally followed the Senate’s rejection of calls for a fresh amendment to the Electoral Act 2026, despite pressure from opposition figures like Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi.
- Collins Onogu highlighted INEC’s achievements since October 2025, including peaceful and transparent elections in Anambra, the FCT, Kano, and Rivers.
- The group commended improvements in logistics, security, inclusiveness, and especially the upgraded INEC Result Viewing Portal used in recent elections.
- INEC announced adjustments to the 2027 election timetable, scheduling the Presidential and National Assembly elections for Saturday, January 16, 2027, with other key polls set for February 20, 2027 and March 6, 2027.
