For brutalizing citizens who were peacefully protesting for credible electoral frameworks for the 2027 elections at the National Assembly, the Movement for Credible Elections (MCE) has pledged to launch what it called a formidable legal action against the Nigeria Police and the National Assembly.
Usman Bugaje, Pat Utomi, Ayuba Wabba, Oby Ezekwesili, Femi Falana (SAN), Amb Nkoyo Toyo, Hajia Bilikisu Magoro, Ene Obi, Salisu Mohammed, and Bala Zakka are among the leaders of the Steering Council of the recently established MCE.
Olawale Okunniyi, the MCE’s head of the national secretariat, issued a statement on Wednesday denouncing the police’s use of tear gas and physical force against nonviolent protesters calling for election reforms.
Regarding the popular electoral reforms for the 2027 elections, the Movement called on all Nigerians and its allies to continue to be calm, determined, and watchful.
“In any functioning democracy, citizens have not only the right but also the responsibility to peacefully demand transparency in electoral processes,” the statement said. It is quite concerning that unarmed demonstrators and citizens were violently dispersed while parliamentarians were considering measures that would have weakened protections for the electronic transmission of election results.
“The issue is no longer one of democracy and procedure when people demand fair elections and are met with force.” It turns into a power struggle.
Therefore, the Movement for Credible Elections calls for: A prompt and open investigation into the police action against demonstrators.
“A National Assembly public statement reaffirming its commitment to mandatory, well-defined safeguards for electronic transmission.” a transparent procedure for discussing electoral reform provisions with voters and civil society.
“As we proceed to institute a formidable legal action against both the National Assembly and Nigerian Police for brutalising citizens protesting peacefully at the National Assembly for credible electoral frameworks for the 2027 elections, we urge all Nigerians and the MCE’s allies to remain peaceful, resolute, and vigilant towards the popular electoral reforms for the 2027 elections.”
