The Obidient Movement has announced a nationwide protest tagged #OccupyINEC and #SaveNigeria, calling on citizens to mobilise across the country in what it described as a collective effort to safeguard Nigeria’s democratic system.
In a statement issued on April 2, 2026, the group said the country had reached a critical point where “silence becomes dangerous and inaction becomes complicity,” citing growing concerns over the state of democratic institutions.
The movement expressed worries about the credibility of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), alleging that the electoral body is increasingly being perceived as compromised under the current administration. It also raised concerns about what it described as mounting pressure on opposition voices, warning that such developments could threaten Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.
According to the statement, weakening institutional credibility could endanger the will of the people, stressing that citizens have a responsibility to act when democratic structures are at risk.
The group outlined key demands, including the resignation of the INEC Chairman over alleged abuse of office and loss of public trust. It also called for an end to what it termed political persecution, including harassment and intimidation of opposition figures.
Other demands include the protection of Nigeria’s multi-party system and respect for the autonomy of political parties, particularly regarding internal leadership and operations.
As part of its action plan, the Obidient Movement said peaceful protests would commence nationwide, spanning all states and the Federal Capital Territory. In Abuja, participants are expected to gather at the national headquarters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), from where a peaceful march to the INEC headquarters will take place. Specific details regarding the date and time are to be announced.
The group emphasised that the protest would be peaceful and lawful, urging participants to remain disciplined and organised. It noted that the movement transcends party affiliations, framing the initiative as a broader struggle to preserve democratic values in Nigeria.
“This moment goes beyond party lines. It is about the survival of democratic values and the protection of the Nigerian state itself,” the statement read.
Reaffirming its stance, the movement declared that it would continue to push for reforms until what it described as the right course is taken, adding that “Nigeria must not become a one-party state.”
The statement concluded with a call for collective action, asserting that a better Nigeria remains possible if citizens actively defend democratic principles.
