Obidient Movement Declares Nationwide #OccupyINEC Protest, Demands INEC Chairman’s Resignation Over Threat to Democracy
The Obidient Movement has announced a nationwide protest tagged #OccupyINEC, calling for the resignation of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over what it described as a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the group said Nigeria is at a critical point where “silence becomes dangerous and inaction becomes complicity,” alleging that democratic institutions are under increasing strain.
The movement expressed concern over the independence of INEC, saying the commission is “increasingly perceived as compromised” under the current administration.
It also raised alarm over alleged pressure on opposition voices, warning that such actions pose a serious risk to Nigeria’s multi-party democratic system.
According to the group, when institutions lose credibility, the will of the people is endangered, stressing the need for urgent corrective action to restore confidence in the electoral process.
The Obidient Movement listed key demands, including the immediate resignation of the INEC Chairman over alleged loss of public trust and failure to remain neutral.
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It also called for an end to what it described as political persecution, intimidation, and harassment of opposition figures across the country.
The group further demanded the protection of Nigeria’s multi-party democracy and an end to any actions that could weaken opposition parties.
It added that political parties must be allowed full autonomy without interference in their internal leadership and operations.
As part of its response, the movement announced the commencement of a nationwide peaceful protest under the banner #OccupyINEC, which will take place across all states and the Federal Capital Territory.
In Abuja, participants are expected to gather at the ADC National Headquarters before marching peacefully to the INEC headquarters. The group said the exact date and time of the Abuja protest will be communicated later.
Across the country, the Obidient Movement urged supporters and “well-meaning Nigerians” to organise and participate in what it described as a coordinated and disciplined protest.
The group stressed that the protest is not driven by anger, but by a sense of duty to protect democratic values and ensure the survival of Nigeria’s political system.
It added that Nigeria must not be allowed to become a one-party state, insisting that citizens must stand together to defend the country’s democracy.
“We will remain peaceful, we will remain lawful, but we will not stand by while our democracy is weakened,” the statement read.
The movement concluded by stating that “a new Nigeria is possible,” but only if citizens actively defend the country’s democratic future.
