In a decisive move to safeguard the future of Nigeria’s democracy, Opposition Watch Nigeria (OWN), in strategic collaboration with the Coalition of All Opposition Political Parties and the Credible Opposition Coalition (COC), has announced the commencement of the #OccupyINEC movement.
OWN stated that the #OccupyINEC will be commencing on April 15, 2026, during which citizens, democratic stakeholders, and lovers of justice will converge to demand a total overhaul of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
A statement by Aisha Bello, Media Coordinator, Opposition Watch Nigeria (OWN), asserted that the mandate is clear; “No Reform, No 2027 Election”.
Bello said the #OccupyINEC movement is built upon a Six-Point Request aimed at purging the electoral body of bias and restoring the sanctity of the ballot box.
The request of OWN include; the immediate resignation of INEC Chairman: Professor Joash Amupitan to allow for neutral leadership and the removal of Corrupt National Commissioners and Directors, particularly all INEC Directors implicated in interfering with the internal activities of opposition political parties.
The Movement is also demanding an investigation into inducements, stressing that a full-scale probe should be conducted into allegations of land and monetary inducements by FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike which were used to influence electoral processes.
It also demanded a fresh Timetable for 2027, thus the need for the immediate release of a fresh, transparent timetable for the 2027 General Elections.
The #OccupyINEC Movement also demanded that Legal Action should be carried against compromised INEC officials, stressing that all INEC officials found to have compromised previous processes must face the full weight of the law.
It also called for the restoration of integrity and a comprehensive return to electoral integrity and absolute neutrality in all INEC operations.
Bello said; “This is a clarion call to all who believe in the power of the vote. We cannot transition into another election cycle under a system that is fundamentally compromised.
“The integrity of our nation depends on the neutrality of its umpire”.
Accordingly, Opposition Watch Nigeria (OWN) invites all civil society organizations, professional bodies, and the Nigerian youth to join the peaceful movement to reclaim Nigeria’s democracy.
OWN is a leading advocacy group dedicated to monitoring electoral transparency, promoting democratic accountability, and ensuring a level playing field for all political participants in Nigeria.
