Opposition Groups Fix April 15 For Nationwide Protest, Demand Electoral Reforms

Opposition Watch Nigeria (OWN), in collaboration with the Coalition of All Opposition Political Parties and the Credible Opposition Coalition (COC), has fixed a nationwide protest scheduled to begin on April 15, 2026, calling for sweeping reforms within the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The protest, tagged #OccupyINEC, is aimed at pressuring the electoral body to undertake what the organisers describe as a “total overhaul” to restore public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.

In a statement issued by its Media Coordinator, Aisha Bello, OWN said the movement is driven by a firm position that credible reforms must precede the 2027 general elections.

“The movement asserts a clear mandate: No Reform, No 2027 Election.”

According to the group, the protest will bring together citizens, civil society organisations, and political stakeholders committed to electoral transparency and accountability.

The organisers outlined a six-point agenda they say is necessary to “purge the electoral body of bias and restore the sanctity of the ballot box.”

Top among the demands is the immediate resignation of the INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, to pave the way for what they described as neutral leadership.

They also called for the removal of directors allegedly involved in interfering with opposition party activities, as well as a full investigation into claims of inducements linked to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

Other demands include the release of a fresh and transparent timetable for the 2027 general elections, prosecution of compromised electoral officials, and a broader commitment to restoring integrity and neutrality within INEC.

OWN described the initiative as a “clarion call” to Nigerians who believe in the power of free and fair elections, warning against entering another election cycle under what it termed a compromised system.

“We cannot transition into another election cycle under a system that is fundamentally compromised. The integrity of our nation depends on the neutrality of its umpire.”

The group urged civil society organisations, professional bodies, and Nigerian youths to join what it emphasised will be a peaceful protest aimed at “reclaiming democracy.”

End.