On Thursday in Abuja, security agencies prevented a possible clash at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission as groups with opposing views over the crisis in the African Democratic Congress attempted to stage protests in the area.
The situation followed the decision by INEC to remove the leadership of the party’s National Working Committee led by David Mark from its official records, a move that has sparked disagreement among party members and supporters.
Two groups had planned separate demonstrations at the commission’s headquarters, one in support of the electoral body’s action and another against it. However, heavy deployment of security personnel restricted access to the road leading to the office, which discouraged one of the groups from showing up.
Despite the restrictions, some youths gathered at about 11 a.m. to express support for INEC’s decision. The group insisted that anyone dissatisfied with the development should seek legal redress instead of organising protests that could lead to unrest.
Speaking during the gathering, a representative of the group said their presence was to back the commission and discourage any attempt to disrupt activities at the office. He added that the electoral body acted based on a court directive and should be allowed to carry out its duties without interference.
The protesters also warned against actions that could create tension, noting that such moves could affect peace and stability. They pledged continued support for INEC and said they would resist any attempt to cause disorder around the commission’s headquarters.
The incident comes amid growing disputes within the ADC and reactions to INEC’s stance on the party’s leadership, which has led to protests, legal actions, and political exchanges in recent days.