A heavy security presence has been reported at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja.
The heightened security comes after the electoral body removed the National Working Committee (NWC) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from its portal on Wednesday.
Following the announcement, over 2,000 Nigerians, including members of the ADC, the Obidient Movement, and other groups, gathered around INEC’s Maitama office in protest. Some of these groups had also planned a follow-up demonstration on Thursday, dubbed “Occupy INEC.”
On Thursday morning, roads leading to the commission’s headquarters were blocked by security vehicles. Large numbers of security personnel, including officers from the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) and the Department of State Services (DSS), were stationed around the premises.
INEC removed David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its official portal, striking them out as National Chairman and National Secretary of the ADC, respectively. The commission also stated that it would not recognise Nafiu Bala Gombe, who is seeking court approval to be declared national chairman.
The commission further announced that it would suspend recognition of all party factions and refrain from monitoring any conventions or congresses organised by groups aligned with the affected leaders. The decision will remain in effect until the Federal High Court delivers a final judgment on the substantive suit.