Armed security operatives on Thursday flooded the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja following rising tensions linked to a planned protest by members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The development comes at a time when the party is battling a serious internal crisis. The dispute has divided its leadership into rival camps, creating uncertainty and agitation among members.
Eyewitnesses around the commission’s office reported a strong presence of Nigerian Army personnel. Armoured vehicles were seen positioned at strategic points.
Likewise, officers of the Nigeria Police Force were also deployed in large numbers. Many of them carried rifles and other security equipment.
Movement around the premises was restricted. Security officials mounted checkpoints and closely monitored activities within and outside the complex. The atmosphere was tense but calm as of Thursday morning.
The show of force is believed to be connected to threats by some aggrieved ADC members to stage a protest at the commission’s office. The protest is reportedly aimed at challenging recent decisions taken by INEC concerning the party’s leadership.
The crisis escalated after INEC removed the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its official portal as National Chairman and National Secretary of the ADC.
The commission explained that the decision followed “preservatory orders” issued by the Court of Appeal. The court had directed all parties involved in the dispute to maintain the status quo pending the outcome of a case before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The legal battle involves multiple factions within the party. One group is aligned with Mark, while another is backing Nafiu Bala Gombe as acting chairman. Both sides have continued to send conflicting communications to INEC.
“The names of the current National Working Committee members led by Senator David Mark… would be removed from the INEC portal pursuant to the order of the Court of Appeal to maintain the status quo ante bellum,” the commission had said.
INEC also confirmed that it had received several letters from the opposing factions. While one faction warned against recognising Gombe, another insisted on full compliance with the court ruling.
Faced with the confusion, the electoral body announced that it would suspend recognition of any faction within the ADC. It also said it would not engage with any group until the court delivers a final judgment on the matter.
“The commission shall not receive any further communication or deal with any of the parties or groups… and will not monitor any meeting, congress or convention convened on behalf of the ADC by any group,” INEC stated.
The decision has sparked anger among some party members. They accuse the commission of bias and interference in internal party affairs.
As tensions continue to rise, security agencies appear to be taking no chances. The heavy deployment around INEC headquarters is seen as a preventive measure to avoid breakdown of law and order.