MCE, Falana, Ezekwesili, others sue FG over disruption of electoral act protests

2026-03-29 - 19:14

By Henry Umoru ABUJA — The Movement for Credible Elections (MCE) has filed a lawsuit against the Federal Government, the National Assembly and the Nigeria Police over the alleged violent disruption of peaceful protests against the Electoral Act amendment. The coalition, led by prominent figures including Usman Bugaje, Femi Falana, Oby Ezekwesili, Pat Utomi, Ayuba Wabba, Bilikisu Magoro and Nkoyo Toyo, also announced plans to mobilise Nigerians nationwide against what it described as a “rushed and unpopular” amendment of the Electoral Act. In a statement issued by the Head of its National Secretariat, Olawale Okunniyi, the group said it had approached the Federal High Court in Abuja to seek redress over the February 17, 2026 incident at the National Assembly Complex, where security agents allegedly used force, including tear gas, to disperse peaceful demonstrators. According to the MCE, the protest was organised to demand the inclusion of key provisions in the proposed Electoral Act ahead of the 2027 general elections. The coalition alleged that despite an apology reportedly issued by the National Assembly following the incident, authorities proceeded to fast-track the passage and signing of the amended Electoral Act, contrary to widespread public opposition. Describing the development as a betrayal of public trust, the group said it was seeking legal remedies to challenge both the disruption of the protest and the legitimacy of the amended law. The suit, filed on March 23, 2026, is being led by Falana on behalf of the movement and affected citizens, with MCE’s Director of Publicity, Peter Akah, listed as the lead deponent. Beyond the legal action, the coalition said it would intensify nationwide mobilisation aimed at securing the repeal and comprehensive review of the Electoral Act to ensure credibility in the 2027 elections. As part of its next steps, the group disclosed plans to launch its zonal structures and inaugurate strategic action committees across the country on Tuesday, a move it said would strengthen coordination and grassroots engagement. The MCE emphasised that peaceful protest remains a constitutional right of citizens, insisting that the use of force against demonstrators undermines democratic principles. The coalition maintained that its actions are geared toward promoting transparency, accountability, and public participation in Nigeria’s electoral process.