ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Tension over the controversial Electoral Act 2026 spilled onto the streets of Abuja on Friday as scores of demonstrators staged a peaceful march in solidarity with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), urging the commission to remain focused ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The march, organised by the Arewa Grassroots Leaders Assembly (AGLA), moved from the National Assembly complex to INEC headquarters. Protesters carried placards with inscriptions such as “Chairman, stay the course,” “We support free, fair, and peaceful elections,” and “Defend democracy,” while chanting songs of solidarity.
The rally came a day after the Senate rejected calls for a fresh amendment to the Electoral Act 2026.
Opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra Governor Peter Obi, and former Rivers Governor Rotimi Amaechi, had demanded an immediate review, describing the law as tilted ahead of the 2027 elections.
The Senate, however, advised them to pursue grievances through legislative channels.
Addressing journalists, AGLA National President Collins Onogu stressed that the protest was not meant to condemn INEC but to commend its work.
“We have gathered today at INEC headquarters to lend our voices in support, not criticism. This is a protest of encouragement, to recognise progress and ask for its continuity,” Onogu said.
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He praised INEC’s performance in recent polls, including the Anambra governorship, FCT Area Council elections, and bye-elections in Kano and Rivers, noting that domestic and international observers described them as largely peaceful, transparent, and well-coordinated.
Onogu highlighted improvements in logistics, timely arrival of materials at polling units, enhanced security coordination, inclusion of persons with disabilities, engagement of youth as ad-hoc staff, and open stakeholder communication.
He also commended upgrades to INEC’s Result Viewing Portal, pointing to improved server uptime, faster upload speeds, and measures ensuring votes could not exceed accredited voters.
“These advancements demonstrate real progress in Nigeria’s electoral technology. We urge the commission to continue investing in digital transparency tools that strengthen public confidence,” he said.
The protest unfolded against the backdrop of nationwide debate over the Electoral Act 2026, signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on February 18.
INEC recently adjusted the 2027 election timetable, moving the Presidential and National Assembly polls to January 16, instead of the previously scheduled February 20, drawing criticism from some Muslim groups who noted a conflict with Ramadan.
Friday’s demonstration reinforced a message of partnership rather than opposition.
“Nigeria’s democracy is safer when elections are credible. Today, we stand not against INEC but as allies in democratic progress,” Onogu said.