Former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, Adewole Adebayo, has accused President Bola Tinubu of attempting to exert excessive influence over key democratic institutions, alleging that the president wants to act as both chairman of the electoral commission and a “part-time Chief Justice of Nigeria.”
Adebayo made the remarks during a political interview Arise Television while reacting to ongoing debates surrounding electoral reforms, judicial independence and the conduct of elections in the country.
According to him, democratic institutions such as the Independent National Electoral Commission and the judiciary must remain independent to preserve public confidence in Nigeria’s democracy.
“Tinubu wants to act as chairman of INEC and part-time Chief Justice of Nigeria,” Adebayo said, arguing that political interference in governance institutions threatens constitutional order and democratic accountability.
The SDP chieftain criticised what he described as increasing executive influence over electoral and judicial processes, warning that such a trend could weaken public trust in elections and the rule of law.
He also called for stronger institutional safeguards to ensure that agencies responsible for elections and justice administration operate without pressure from political actors.
Adebayo maintained that Nigeria’s democracy can only thrive when institutions are allowed to function independently and transparently.
The comments come amid growing political discussions ahead of the 2027 general election, with opposition figures intensifying criticism of the Tinubu administration over governance and electoral matters.
Presidential aides and members of the ruling All Progressives Congress have repeatedly dismissed allegations of interference in state institutions, insisting that the administration remains committed to constitutional democracy and judicial independence.
Analysts say debates surrounding electoral integrity and separation of powers are likely to dominate Nigeria’s political landscape in the build-up to the next election cycle.
Adebayo, who contested the 2023 presidential election, has continued to position himself as a vocal opposition figure, frequently calling for institutional reforms and greater accountability in governance.
