Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has criticised the #OccupyINEC protest led by opposition figures, questioning the basis of the demonstration following the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) derecognition of a faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Reacting to the protest, Keyamo dismissed claims that Nigeria’s democracy was under threat, arguing that the controversy surrounding the ADC leadership dispute does not warrant such nationwide agitation.
“So, the survival of our democracy is now anchored on the recognition of one faction of one of the 21 registered political parties we have in this country?” he said.
He further downplayed the political strength of the faction involved, noting that “the same faction, even when recognised, could not win a single Council seat in the just-concluded FCT election.”
The minister also accused the protesters of attempting to pressure institutions to act outside established legal processes.
“Democracy now means their own logic in the media space MUST be accepted and our judiciary processes ignored?” he asked.
“These fellows think they can blackmail everyone to do their bidding AT ALL COST. Unfortunately for them, Nigerians are not so gullible,” Keyamo added.
The protest, which took place at INEC headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, was led by prominent opposition figures including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rauf Aregbesola, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Rotimi Amaechi.
The group demanded the resignation of INEC chairman, Joash Amupitan, following the commission’s decision to derecognise the faction led by former Senate President David Mark.
A large crowd of protesters gathered at the commission’s headquarters despite steady rainfall, calling for electoral accountability ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The demonstration began earlier in the day at Mark’s residence, where a service was held to mark his 78th birthday, before participants marched in a coordinated procession to INEC’s office.