Leaders and members of the opposition coalition within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Wednesday staged a protest at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja, following the commission’s decision to withdraw recognition from the party’s factions.

The protest, led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, attracted a large crowd of supporters who accused INEC of bias and political interference. Atiku described the demonstration as peaceful and necessary to defend Nigeria’s democratic process.

“We are protesting against the partisanship of the electoral umpire. This is a patriotic move to safeguard our democracy and prevent any slide into dictatorship,” he said.

Other prominent figures present included former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, former Senate President David Mark, and leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement Rabiu Kwankwaso. Also in attendance were Rauf Aregbesola, Babachir Lawal, Dino Melaye, and Aminu Gwarzo.

The ADC has been embroiled in a prolonged leadership crisis since mid-2025, with rival factions led by Nafiu Bala and David Mark both claiming control of the party. The dispute escalated into legal battles, prompting INEC to act on a recent Court of Appeal ruling by derecognising both factions