A coalition of youth groups in Sokoto, in collaboration with opposition political parties, has staged a protest at the Independent National Electoral Commission’s office.

The group, which converged on Sokoto on Wednesday, called on President Bola Tinubu’s government to take urgent steps to protect Nigeria’s democracy.

The protesters, led by Yusuf Abubakar, marched peacefully from the federal secretariat to the INEC office, holding placards and chanting political slogans.

The rally drew participants from youth, women, opposition party members, representatives from the National Union of Road Transport Workers, and commercial tricycle and motorcycle operators.

Speaking on behalf of the demonstrators, Mr Abubakar demanded the immediate removal of INEC chairman, Joash Amupitan, or his voluntary resignation.

“The federal government must endorse Amupitan’s expulsion, or he should resign voluntarily to save our 27-year democracy,” he said.

He alleged that Mr Amupitan’s leadership was threatening the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy, particularly following INEC’s removal of the African Democratic Congress leadership from its portal.

“INEC’s action is a clear violation of democratic rights. We are therefore calling for justice for transparent and fair democracy to prevail, especially as the 2027 elections approach.

“The federal government must act to preserve the integrity of our democracy. The actions of INEC are undermining the democratic process,” Mr Abubakar stated.

The protesters were received by an INEC official, Yahaya Tanko, on behalf of the resident electoral commissioner in Sokoto.

Mr Tanko acknowledged the peaceful nature of the demonstration and assured the protesters that their grievances would be forwarded to the appropriate authorities.  

(NAN)