Protesters Storm INEC, Insist on Bala’s Recognition as ADC National Chairman

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

Protesters on Wednesday, staged a peaceful protest at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja, demanding the recognition of Nafiu Bala as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) National Chairman.

The protesters, led by Bala, called on INEC to comply with a subsisting Court of Appeal judgment and cautioned against any action capable of undermining ongoing judicial proceedings.

Speaking during the demonstration, the Special Adviser on Strategy to Bala, Abimiku Monday, urged the commission to respect the March 12, 2026 judgment delivered by the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division.

They also called on citizens to stand firm in defending constitutional order, chanting slogans such as “Obey the Court,” “Respect the Constitution,” and “No to impunity.”

Monday explained that the judgment directed all parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum and refrain from actions that could prejudice pending proceedings before the Federal High Court.

He emphasised that the ruling is binding on all authorities, citing Section 287(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which mandates strict compliance with decisions of the Court of Appeal.

He noted that the party had formally notified INEC through its legal representatives on March 15, 2026, and followed up with another letter on March 27, demanding full compliance within seven days or risk contempt proceedings against the commission’s leadership.

Monday said: “The persistent refusal of INEC to comply with a valid court order is a matter of grave concern. This disregard for judicial authority undermines the rule of law and threatens the very foundation of our democracy. It is imperative to recognize that no institution in Nigeria is above the law.

“When a public body, particularly one tasked with overseeing elections, chooses to ignore the orders of a superior court, it sends a dangerous message that the rule of law is optional.

“Such actions not only erode public trust in our institutions but also set a precedent that could have far-reaching implications for the future of our democracy.”

He stressed that no institution is above the law, warning that disregard for judicial authority could erode public confidence in democratic institutions and set a dangerous precedent.

Also speaking, the convener of the protest, Abdullahi Ahmed, said the demonstration was aimed at reinforcing the rule of law and protecting the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic system.

Ahmed warned that failure by INEC to comply with the court order could weaken public trust in the electoral body and democratic governance.

He said: “When a public institution ignores a superior court ruling, it sends a dangerous message that the rule of law is optional.”

The protesters demanded immediate compliance with the appellate court’s directive, restoration of the status quo, and an end to actions that could undermine ongoing legal proceedings.

Responding to the protesters, INEC’s Assistant Director of Security, Mohammed Hamma, said the commission’s leadership was currently out of Abuja attending an official engagement in Lagos.

He said: “Unfortunately, the Chairman is not around. They are all in Lagos attending a workshop. INEC does not have anything to hide. If representatives return after the break, they can follow up on the matter.”