The Obidient Movement has demanded the resignation of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, over the electoral body’s decision on the leadership crisis in the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In a statement, the group called for a nationwide protest, lamenting that the latest development is a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
The movement warned Nigerians that remaining silent during this period is dangerous and shows complicity.
“There are moments in the life of a nation when silence becomes dangerous, and inaction becomes complicity. Nigeria has arrived at such a moment,” the statement read.
The movement alleged that INEC is no longer being perceived as impartial under the current administration.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which should stand as an impartial guardian of the people’s will, is increasingly perceived as compromised under the present administration,” it stated.
It added that opposition voices appear to be facing mounting pressure, warning of potential threats to Nigeria’s multi-party system.
“When institutions lose credibility, the will of the people is endangered. And when that happens, citizens have a duty to act,” the group said.
Among its key demands, the Obidient Movement called for the resignation of the INEC chairman, citing “gross abuse of office, loss of public trust, and failure to uphold the neutrality required of that office.”
The group also demanded “an immediate end to political persecution, including all forms of intimidation, harassment, and targeting of opposition voices,” as well as the protection of Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.
It further called for “full respect for party autonomy, ensuring that the internal leadership and integrity of political parties, including ADC, are not interfered with.”
The movement announced plans to commence a nationwide protest tagged #OccupyINEC across all states and the Federal Capital Territory.
“In defence of these principles, we are commencing a nationwide peaceful protest starting immediately across all states and the Federal Capital Territory,” the statement said.