The National Headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja was the scene of a peaceful protest on Wednesday, as members of civil society groups aligned with the Julius Abure-led faction of the Labour Party (LP) demanded the immediate recognition of their party’s candidates in upcoming bye-elections.
The demonstrators, numbering in dozens, arrived at the commission’s office around 11:00 a.m., bearing placards with bold inscriptions such as “INEC, who is using you against LP?”, “Tell INEC to obey court orders”, and “Mahmood, stop destroying democracy in Nigeria.”
Their demand: That INEC comply with court rulings that allegedly favour the inclusion of Labour Party candidates, whom they say were unlawfully removed or omitted from the list of contestants in the scheduled bye-elections.
Speaking on behalf of the protesters, several activists accused INEC of taking partisan actions under pressure, warning that such moves could undermine public trust in Nigeria’s democratic process.
“We’re here to remind INEC that it is a constitutional body, not a political tool. Obeying court orders is not optional — it is a duty,” said one protester, a member of a civil rights coalition.
The protest comes amid internal leadership struggles within the Labour Party, with factions loyal to different party leaders battling for control. Julius Abure’s camp insists it remains the legitimate leadership, citing various legal victories.
INEC has yet to issue an official response to the protest or the demands made by the demonstrators. However, sources within the commission say legal consultations are ongoing regarding the disputed candidacies.
The nationwide bye-elections — scheduled to fill vacant seats across both state and federal legislatures — have become flashpoints of political contention, particularly for the Labour Party, which gained unexpected momentum in the 2023 general elections.
Analysts say the outcome of these bye-elections could shape early narratives ahead of the 2027 polls, especially as smaller parties like the LP continue pushing for broader representation.
What do you think about the role of INEC in party disputes?
Should electoral bodies be allowed to interpret court rulings, or must they act strictly as directed?
🗨️ Join the conversation in the comments below
📩 Or send your views to: Pulsedaily.com@gmail.com
📱 Tag us on social media using #INECProtest and #LabourParty2025
