Armed security personnel have locked down the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Maitama, Abuja, on Thursday, April 2, 2026.
This development follows the electoral umpire’s decision to delist the National Working Committee (NWC) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from its official portal.
Over two thousand Nigerians gathered around the facility moments after the commission struck out the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as National Chairman and Secretary.
Members of the ADC and the Obidient Movement organized the demonstration under the banner “Occupy INEC” to protest what they alleged is a political witch-hunt.
Consequently, the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) and Department of State Services (DSS) have deployed a massive team to prevent any breach of the peace.
“The roads leading to the commission’s headquarters were blocked with security vehicles on Thursday morning,” an eyewitness at the scene confirmed.
“A large number of security agents, including personnel of the Nigerian Police Force and DSS, were also observed around the headquarters,” the source added.
Security Gridlock Hits Maitama Administrative District
The security cordons have caused significant traffic delays for commuters heading into the city center.
INEC maintains that its decision to remove David Mark and Aregbesola was based on a return to the “status quo ante bellum” regarding leadership disputes.
Meanwhile, the commission also refused to acknowledge Nafiu Bala Gombe, who is currently seeking leadership through a Federal High Court suit.
“INEC would suspend recognition of all factions within the party and refrain from monitoring any conventions,” the commission’s official statement clarified.
Furthermore, the body stated it would not monitor congresses organized by groups aligned with any of the affected leaders until the court decides.
“The decision will remain in place pending the final determination of a substantive suit before the Federal High Court,” the electoral body insists.
ADC Factions Vow To Sustain Protest Action
Protesters at the scene held placards demanding the immediate restoration of the party’s leadership on the digital portal.
They believe the timing of the delisting is a strategic plot to weaken the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“We will not leave this place until the right thing is done. This is an assault on our democracy,” one demonstrator shouted.
The DSS has maintained a silent but visible presence. They have positioned snipers on the rooftops of nearby administrative buildings.
Furthermore, armored personnel carriers have been stationed at the main gates to prevent the crowd from surging into the premises.
“INEC has caved to pressure and has chosen to side with the government against the Nigerian people,” a lead protester alleged.
Meanwhile, the NPF has cautioned citizens to avoid the Maitama axis. They believe that maintaining law and order is non-negotiable during this period.
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