A coalition of youth groups in Sokoto, in collaboration with opposition political parties, staged a protest at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office on Wednesday.
The group called on the Federal Government to take urgent steps to protect Nigeria’s 27-year democracy.
Led by Mr. Yusuf Abubakar, the protesters marched peacefully from the Federal Secretariat to the INEC office, holding placards and chanting political slogans. The rally included youth, women, opposition party members, representatives from the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), and commercial tricycle and motorcycle operators.
Speaking on behalf of the demonstrators, Abubakar demanded the immediate removal or voluntary resignation of INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan.
“The federal government must endorse Amupitan’s removal, or he should resign voluntarily to save our 27-year democracy,” he said, alleging that Amupitan’s leadership threatens Nigeria’s democratic integrity, particularly following INEC’s removal of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) leadership from its portal.
“INEC’s action violates democratic rights. We are calling for justice and transparent, fair democracy, especially with the 2027 elections approaching. The federal government must act to preserve democratic integrity,” Abubakar added.
The protesters were received by Mr. Yahaya Tanko, Head of General Administration and Procurement at INEC, on behalf of the Sokoto State Resident Electoral Commissioner. Tanko acknowledged the peaceful nature of the demonstration and assured them that their grievances would be forwarded to the appropriate authorities.
