By Myke Uzendu, Abuja
Following the alleged shrinking of democratic space by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), opposition leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, on Wednesday led a “Save Democracy” protest in Abuja.
The protest, which stated around 10am at Maitama Roundabout in the Federal Capital Territory was led by supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and members of the civil society.
Also present at the protest ground were former Senate President David Mark, as well as former governors Rauf Aregbesola and Rotimi Amaechi.
Earlier in a statement on his X handle, Atiku, said the protest was aimed at resisting what he described as bias within the electoral system and protecting Nigeria’s democracy from authoritarian tendencies.
“Myself and other leaders of the ADC are peacefully protesting against the partisanship of the electoral umpire. Our patriotic stance is aimed at safeguarding our democracy and preventing the enthronement of a dictatorship,” Atiku stated.
Obi also in his X handle, described the protest as a collective response to perceived attempts to undermine democratic principles, including fears of political dominance by a single party, weakening opposition structures, and declining public confidence in electoral processes.
According to organisers, the protest was driven by concerns over what they described as a shrinking democratic space, allegations of institutional bias, and the need to safeguard electoral integrity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Participants also cited worsening economic conditions and governance challenges, warning that a weakened democratic system could further erode accountability and reduce citizen participation.
Addressing supporters, Obi stressed the urgency of defending democratic values and resisting what he described as a dangerous drift toward a one-party state.
“We, members and leaders of the ADC and other well-meaning Nigerians, lovers of democracy, are saying that our democracy must not be killed.
“We say no to a one-party system, and for that reason today we are calling on Nigerians who believe in unity, peace and the security of our country to join us as we defend democracy in our land,” Obi stated.
Kwankwaso, a former presidential candidate and prominent political figure, also lent his presence to the protest, reinforcing the coalition’s message and signalling growing cooperation among opposition leaders.
A flyer circulated ahead of the demonstration echoed calls for civic action, urging Nigerians to “defend our freedom” and “protect our vote,” while highlighting the importance of active participation in the democratic process.
The protest reflects increasing political mobilisation among opposition groups and civic actors, as debates intensify over governance, electoral credibility, and the future of Nigeria’s multi-party system ahead of the next election cycle.
