A large crowd of protesters converged on the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja on Wednesday, defying steady rain to demand electoral accountability ahead of the 2027 elections.

What began as a demonstration by a faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) quickly evolved into a broader rally, drawing participants from multiple political parties and civil society groups. Protesters voiced concerns over the credibility of the electoral system and the transparency of INEC’s operations.

Muyideen Bashiru, a protester, noted that the turnout demonstrated the issues resonated across party lines, with participants traveling from various parts of the country. “We’re currently heading towards the INEC office. You can see the crowd; there are hundreds, possibly thousands of people gathered,” he said.

Among the high-profile figures present were David Mark, former Senate President; Rauf Aregbesola, former Governor of Osun State and ex-Minister of Interior; Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate; Rabiu Kwankwaso, former Governor of Kano State and leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement; and Dino Melaye, former Senator representing Kogi West.

The protest began at David Mark’s residence, where a morning service was held to mark his 78th birthday, before participants moved in a coordinated march towards INEC. “It’s massive. This is not just about the ADC; members of other political parties are here as well,” Bashiru said.

The procession from Apo Legislative Quarters towards the INEC office saw the crowd swell along the route, taking over major roads across the Federal Capital Territory.

Bashiru added that the protest had been initially scheduled for last week but was postponed due to heightened security, including roadblocks and patrol vehicles. Wednesday’s demonstration, however, appeared largely unannounced, suggesting a strategy shift that may have caught authorities off guard.

Despite persistent rain, the crowd at INEC headquarters continued to grow, maintaining an intense yet orderly atmosphere. “You can see the crowd behind me; it’s still growing, and the energy is intense,” Bashiru said.