Mark, Obi, Aregbesola, Kwankwaso Lead Protest at INEC Over Electoral Concerns

Abuja — Prominent Nigerian political figures, including David Mark, Rauf Aregbesola, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Kwankwaso, on Wednesday led a large protest to the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja, calling for greater electoral accountability ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Despite steady rainfall, hundreds—possibly thousands—of demonstrators converged on the electoral body’s headquarters, signalling rising political tension and growing public scrutiny of Nigeria’s electoral process.

The protest began earlier in the day at the Abuja residence of David Mark, where a morning service was held to commemorate his 78th birthday. From there, the political leaders and their supporters marched in an organised procession to the INEC office.

Initially described as a demonstration linked to a faction within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the protest quickly evolved into a broader coalition movement. Participants from multiple political parties and civil society groups joined the rally, transforming it into a cross-party demonstration focused on safeguarding democratic principles and questioning the credibility of the electoral system.

Speaking during the march, a protester, Muyideen Bashiru, highlighted the scale and diversity of the turnout.

“We’re currently heading towards the INEC office. You can see the crowd; there are hundreds, possibly thousands of people gathered,” he said, noting that participants had travelled from different parts of the country.

Observers say the presence of high-profile political figures from different regions and parties underscores increasing alignment among opposition voices and signals heightened political activity ahead of the next general elections.

As of the time of filing this report, there had been no official response from INEC regarding the protest or the demands raised by the demonstrators.

Mark, Obi, Aregbesola, Kwankwaso Lead Protest at INEC Over Electoral Concerns

South-East Ex-Governors Back Tinubu’s Re-Election

Former governors from Nigeria’s South-East have thrown their weight behind the decision of current governors in the region to support the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing the move as a strategic political alignment aimed at advancing regional development.

The endorsement followed a closed-door meeting held in Enugu, where the former leaders also formally unveiled the South-East Former Governors’ Forum, a new platform designed to strengthen collaboration with sitting governors and contribute to national policy discussions.

Speaking after the meeting, the Minister of Works and former Ebonyi State governor, Dave Umahi, said the forum would serve as an advisory and support body, offering guidance on key regional and national issues, including infrastructure, security, and economic development.

South-East Ex-Governors

In a statement issued through his spokesperson, Francis Nwaze, Umahi noted that the forum’s formation reflects a renewed commitment by past leaders to work closely with incumbent governors in promoting the interests of the South-East.

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He said the former governors commended President Tinubu for ongoing infrastructure development projects across Nigeria, as well as for appointing several individuals from the South-East into strategic government positions. They also expressed appreciation for what they described as the President’s continued support for governors in the region.

Umahi added that the ex-governors were unanimous in backing the position already taken by current South-East governors, pledging their full support for Tinubu’s re-election bid ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to him, the forum is open to all former governors from the region regardless of political affiliation and will operate alongside existing structures such as the South-East Governors’ Forum, rather than replacing them.

Those who attended the meeting included former governors Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Sullivan Chime, Martin Elechi, Chris Ngige, and Okezie Ikpeazu.

The development signals a growing political consensus within the South-East, as key stakeholders in the region increasingly align with the federal government. Analysts say the move could reshape political dynamics ahead of the next election cycle, particularly in a region that has historically had diverse political leanings.

While the endorsement underscores unity among former and current leaders, observers note that its broader impact will depend on how it translates into tangible development outcomes and voter sentiment in the coming years.

South-East Ex-Governors Back Tinubu’s Re-Election

Yusuf Buhari, Son of Late President, Declares for House of Reps Seat

Yusuf Muhammadu Buhari, son of Nigeria’s late former President Muhammadu Buhari, has officially declared his candidacy for the House of Representatives, aiming to represent the Sandamu/Daura/Mai’Adua federal constituency in Katsina State under the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform.

The announcement, shared publicly via X by Bashir Ahmad, comes after extensive consultations with local party leaders, elders, and influential stakeholders across the three local government areas in the constituency. Yusuf emphasized that his decision was driven by a commitment to community development, effective representation, and empowerment of local youth.

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In a letter titled “Expression of Interest to Contest for the House of Representatives Seat,” Yusuf Buhari highlighted his intention to focus on infrastructure, education, and human capital development if elected. He also called for the support of residents and party members, urging a collaborative approach to addressing local challenges.

Political analysts note that the Sandamu/Daura/Mai’Adua constituency is a traditional APC stronghold, making the party primary the most critical stage of the election. Yusuf’s entry marks his first major move into active politics, having maintained a low profile during his father’s presidency.

While the announcement has drawn strong attention, some local party stakeholders have stressed the importance of transparent primary elections, warning against endorsing any candidate prematurely. Nonetheless, early meetings reportedly indicate significant grassroots support for Yusuf ahead of the APC primaries.

Yusuf Buhari’s declaration signals the start of a politically active phase for the former president’s son, with observers watching closely how his campaign develops as the 2027 general elections approach.

Yusuf Buhari, Son of Late President, Declares for House of Reps Seat