The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has categorically disowned a planned protest reportedly scheduled for January 20, 2026, against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), saying the action was not authorised by the party and was being organised by individuals no longer recognised as members.
The party described those behind the planned demonstration as “impostors” and urged its supporters to remain calm and law-abiding.
Reports had circulated that the NNPP was planning to march to INEC headquarters in Abuja and other states to express grievances over the electoral body’s conduct. However, the NNPP’s National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, in a statement issued on January 19, 2026, clarified that the party’s leadership had no involvement in organising the protest.
The planned demonstration came amid lingering tensions over internal party leadership disputes and ongoing legal battles involving factional recognitions within the NNPP. The party has been embroiled in disputes over legitimate leadership following court judgments and factional disagreements.
In its statement, the NNPP pointed to a Federal High Court judgment in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1354/2024, delivered on April 18, 2024, by Justice Emeka Nwite, which affirmed that the individuals reportedly behind the planned protest had been expelled from the party and were no longer recognised members.
Despite the court ruling, the party said those individuals had not appealed and were instead engaging in what it described as “forum shopping” for unsound court orders.
Johnson reiterated that the party’s leadership was not involved in any planned demonstrations and described the organisers’ actions as illegal and not reflective of the party’s stance.
The statement urged NNPP members nationwide not to be provoked by actions aimed at distracting the party from its objectives and reaffirmed commitment to lawful and democratic processes.
The NNPP’s dissociation from the planned protest highlights continued internal frictions within the party and clarifies its official position amid public confusion. By distancing itself from the demonstration, the party seeks to preserve its image as a law-abiding political force and avoid association with possible unrest or unlawful actions.
For members and supporters, the clarification helps quell potential misunderstandings about the party’s strategic direction, especially as Nigeria approaches a politically charged period ahead of future elections. It also underscores the importance of internal cohesion and adherence to recognised party structures when engaging in public political actions.
The NNPP’s official rejection of any involvement in the planned protest against INEC reinforces its commitment to peaceful, lawful political engagement. By labelling the supposed organisers as impostors and reaffirming support for democratic norms, the party aims to maintain stability within its ranks and avoid being drawn into actions that could detract from its broader political objectives.
