The NNPP has called off its planned protest against INEC, citing fears of hijacking by hoodlums and political rivals, but promises to pursue justice legally

The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has cancelled its planned protest against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), citing fears that the demonstration could be hijacked by hoodlums and political opponents intent on causing disorder.

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The party had announced on January 10 that it would hold a peaceful protest in Abuja on Tuesday, January 20, to press INEC to officially recognise the authentic executives of the party, led by Dr Agbo Major.

In a statement signed by the party’s Founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr Boniface Aniebonam, the NNPP said it remained committed to pursuing justice but would not compromise national peace and unity.

“We are law-abiding citizens, and our quest for justice will always respect the peace and unity of Nigeria,” the statement read. “We are pained by the refusal of INEC to do what is right, but we still believe in towing the rightful lane in achieving it.”

The party urged members to remain calm, assuring them that their grievances would soon be addressed. It lamented that INEC had continued to ignore court orders directing the recognition of the Major-led leadership.

“It is already public that the Abia High Court and the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Abuja, directed INEC to stop dealing with the Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso-led group pending the outcome of ongoing judicial reviews,” the statement added.

Dr Aniebonam emphasised that the issue at hand is not a leadership crisis but the termination of a Memorandum of Understanding between the NNPP and the Kwankwasiya Movement.

He expressed hope that the courts would soon resolve the matter, ensuring that justice prevails.

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The NNPP’s decision highlights its intention to pursue legal channels over street protests, prioritising peace while asserting its rights under Nigerian law.