There was a strong security presence at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja on Thursday following its decision to remove the National Working Committee of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from its official portal.
The move comes ahead of a planned protest by party supporters and allied groups at the commission’s office in Maitama.
Eyewitnesses reported that access roads leading to the INEC headquarters were cordoned off early Thursday, with security vehicles stationed strategically around the area. A heavy deployment of personnel from the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) was also observed within and around the premises.
The heightened security follows reports of an ‘Occupy INEC’ protest being organised by members of the ADC, the Obidient Movement, and other groups. Sources indicated that over 2,000 protesters had already gathered near the commission’s headquarters on Wednesday shortly after INEC announced its stance on the party’s leadership crisis.
The situation has triggered anger among some political supporters and groups.
On Wednesday, INEC removed the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its portal as National Chairman and National Secretary of the ADC, respectively. It also declined to recognise Nafiu Bala Gombe, who is seeking judicial confirmation as the party’s national chairman.
The electoral body announced that it has suspended recognition of all factions within the party pending the outcome of ongoing legal proceedings. It further stated that it would not monitor any conventions or congresses organised by groups linked to the affected leaders.
INEC emphasized that the measures will remain in place until the Federal High Court delivers a final judgment on the matter.
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