MCE Coalition Sues FG, National Assembly Over Protest Crackdown

A coalition under the Movement for Credible Elections has initiated legal action against the Federal Government, the National Assembly, and the Nigeria Police over the alleged violent disruption of a peaceful protest against the 2026 Electoral Act.

The coalition, led by prominent figures including Femi Falana, Usman Bugaje, Oby Ezekwesili, Pat Utomi, Bilikisu Magoro, and Nkoyo Toyo, condemned what it described as the “forceful suppression” of citizens exercising their constitutional rights.

The protest, organized by the group, took place on February 17, 2026, at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, where demonstrators demanded the inclusion of key provisions in the proposed electoral legislation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to the coalition, security operatives deployed tear gas and force to disperse the protesters, an action it said violated citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly.

Although the National Assembly reportedly acknowledged the incident and issued an apology during plenary the following day, the group dismissed it as inadequate.

The coalition further accused lawmakers and the presidency of hastily passing and assenting to an amended Electoral Act despite widespread public opposition. It described the move as a betrayal of public trust and likened it to a “political coup.”

Consequently, on March 23, 2026, a suit was filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja by Falana on behalf of the movement and affected citizens, seeking redress for the alleged rights violations and accountability for the actions of security agencies.

The coalition also announced plans to intensify its opposition to the amended Electoral Act. It said it would launch zonal structures and strategic action committees nationwide to mobilise Nigerians against what it termed a “rushed and unpopular” law.

The group reiterated its demand for the repeal and comprehensive review of the Electoral Act, insisting that credible electoral reforms are essential to ensuring transparency and public confidence in the 2027 elections.