Electoral Reform Protest: Adeyanju Welcomes ‘Emergency Activists,’ Anticipates Malami, El-Rufai’s Participation

Rights Lawyer and Activist Deji Adeyanju, has welcomed what he described as a growing influx of “emergency activists” into the nationwide movement, noting that many of them were once vocal critics of street protests and civic agitation.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Adeyanju observed that individuals who previously mobilised thugs against protesters, mocked demonstrations, and opposed demands for accountability while in positions of power are now finding themselves compelled to join the struggle they once resisted.

According to him, these actors, who served under past administrations, actively fought against efforts to uphold the rule of law and defend citizens’ rights, but are now facing the harsh realities of the same “broken system” they helped to entrench.

“Today, they are confronted by the consequences of the rotten system they built and protected and can no longer evade its impact,” Adeyanju said.

Despite their past roles, the activist said the movement remains open to all, stressing that their sudden awakening underscores the universal nature of injustice.

“We welcome them to this side of history. Their emergence proves that injustice eventually spares no one,” he added.

Adeyanju further expressed optimism that more former political actors who once opposed the reform movement would soon publicly align with the protests, specifically mentioning former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.

“I look forward to seeing Comrade Malami, El-Rufai, and others who once stood firmly against our struggle join us at the protest grounds,” he stated.

He concluded by reaffirming the resolve of the movement, declaring that the momentum for electoral reform has shifted decisively and that the struggle for credible elections and democratic accountability would continue until meaningful change is achieved.