Heavy Security Deployed at INEC Headquarters Abuja Amid Planned ADC Protest

Heavy Security Deployed at INEC Headquarters Abuja Amid Planned ADC Protest

Armed security forces on Thursday surrounded the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Abuja as tensions escalated over a planned protest by supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The move comes amid a deepening leadership crisis within the party, which has split into rival factions, prompting agitation and nationwide attention.

Eyewitnesses reported a strong presence of Nigeria Army personnel, with armoured vehicles stationed at strategic points around the INEC complex in the Maitama district. The Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) also reinforced security, restricting movement and monitoring activities closely to prevent potential clashes.

The heightened security follows INEC’s decision to remove the names of Senator David Mark and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as National Chairman and National Secretary of the ADC from its official portal. The commission said this action complied with preservatory orders issued by the Court of Appeal, directing all parties to maintain the status quo until the Federal High Court delivers a final judgment.

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The ADC dispute has created two competing camps: one backing David Mark and the other supporting Nafiu Bala Gombe as acting chairman. Both sides have sent conflicting communications to INEC, further complicating the situation and sparking the threat of protests at the commission’s headquarters.

“The names of the current National Working Committee members led by Senator David Mark… would be removed from the INEC portal pursuant to the order of the Court of Appeal to maintain the status quo ante bellum,” INEC stated, clarifying that it would suspend recognition of any faction until judicial resolution.

Supporters of the ADC have accused INEC of bias and interference in the party’s internal affairs. Civil society groups and political commentators have urged restraint and neutrality from the electoral commission to prevent further escalation of tensions.

Security operatives set up checkpoints and roadblocks around INEC headquarters, with armed personnel maintaining a visible presence. The deployment is viewed as a preventive measure to avert potential clashes or breakdown of law and order while the legal dispute unfolds.

Political observers note that the heavy security presence at INEC highlights the growing intersection of party politics and public order in Nigeria, as the ADC leadership tussle remains unresolved and could influence upcoming electoral processes.

Heavy Security Deployed at INEC Headquarters Abuja Amid Planned ADC Protest