The Movement for Credible Elections (MCE), a coalition of civil society leaders including Usman Bugaje, Femi Falana, Oby Ezekwesili, Pat Utomi and Nkoyo Toyo, has instituted legal action against the Federal Government, the National Assembly and the Nigerian Police over the crackdown on protesters demanding electoral reforms.
The lawsuit stems from the February 17, 2026 incident at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, where security operatives allegedly used force, including tear gas, to disperse peaceful demonstrators calling for the inclusion of key provisions in the Electoral Act.
Despite an apology by the National Assembly following the incident, the coalition described it as insufficient, accusing the legislature and the Presidency of proceeding to hastily amend and pass the Electoral Act without adequate public input. The group argued that the process undermined democratic norms and disregarded citizens’ concerns.
According to the coalition, the suit, filed on March 23 at the Federal High Court, Abuja, by Falana & Falana Chambers, seeks justice for what it termed the unlawful disruption of a constitutionally protected protest.
Activist Peter Akah is listed as the lead deponent in the case.
The MCE further criticised the rapid presidential assent to the amended law, warning that the development could erode public confidence in the 2027 general elections.
As part of its next steps, the coalition announced plans to roll out zonal structures and inaugurate strategic committees to drive nationwide mobilisation against the amended Electoral Act. It reiterated its demand for the repeal and comprehensive review of the legislation to ensure a credible electoral process.