The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, Dr Kayode Ajulo (SAN), has cautioned the African Democratic Congress (ADC) against attempting to intimidate the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). His statement, issued on Friday, came in response to recent actions by the opposition party concerning the commission's leadership. Ajulo defended INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, affirming the body's independence and statutory authority. He emphasized that no political party should seek to influence or pressure INEC in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections. The ADC had raised concerns over Yakubu's continued tenure, citing constitutional term limits, but Ajulo dismissed the agitation as unfounded. He urged all parties to respect democratic institutions and operate within the legal framework. INEC remains responsible for conducting credible elections, and Ajulo stressed that its operations must not be compromised by political pressure.
Ajulo's public defence of INEC's chairman so early in the 2027 election cycle suggests legal challenges to electoral leadership may gain traction. His intervention, while framed as upholding institutional integrity, aligns with a broader pattern of serving governors shielding federal appointees who oversee elections. If Yakubu's tenure becomes a legal flashpoint, the judiciary — not statements from state officials — will have the final say. For Nigerians, this signals that pre-election disputes will be fought in courtrooms and press releases long before ballots are cast.
