ADC crisis: CSOs fault party's protest, back INEC
A coalition of civil society organisations operating under the banner of ‘Stand Up Nigeria’ has criticised the recent protest staged by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Abuja, describing it
A coalition of civil society organisations operating under the banner of ‘Stand Up Nigeria’ has criticised the recent protest staged by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Abuja, describing it as a “national embarrassment” and a development capable of harming Nigeria’s democratic reputation.
In a statement on Wednesday, the coalition, led by Comrade Sunday Attah, said the demonstration projects a negative image of the country to the international community and detracts from efforts aimed at strengthening democratic institutions.
The group argued that the protest presents Nigeria’s democracy as fragile and ineffective, a characterisation it rejected as inaccurate.
“This protest is a total embarrassment to the image of Nigeria. It creates a wrong impression globally that our democracy is failing. This will not be tolerated by well-meaning Nigerians committed to democratic growth,” Attah said.
The coalition also declared its support for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), urging its chairman to remain focused despite what it termed “unwarranted pressure and theatrics.”
It noted that ongoing electoral reforms by the commission are essential to improving transparency, credibility, and public confidence in the electoral process.
“We stand firmly with INEC and encourage the chairman to remain focused. The ongoing reforms will further strengthen and shape Nigeria’s democracy for the better,” the coalition affirmed.
The group further warned that those involved in the protest could pose a security concern, cautioning against actions that may trigger unrest or disrupt public order.
It advised parties with grievances to pursue redress through the courts rather than public protests that could escalate tensions.
“If there are grievances, the courts remain the appropriate avenue for resolution. Resorting to protests of this nature only escalates tensions and threatens public peace,” the coalition stated.
The coalition reaffirmed its position on the need to protect democratic values and urged political actors to act with restraint in the interest of national stability and unity.
