Reactions have trailed a statement by lawyer and human rights activist Dele Farotimi, who criticized Nigeria’s electoral and judicial institutions over what he described as an uneven political playing field.
Farotimi made the remarks while reacting to the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remove David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from their positions as National Caretaker Chairman and Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), following a recent court ruling.
In a metaphor-laden statement, Farotimi alleged that while opposition parties are focused on preparing for credible elections, key institutions of state appear to be aligned toward a predetermined outcome.
“The opposition are preparing for an election,” he said, “while INEC, the judiciary, and Bola Ahmed Tinubu are preparing for a coronation.”
His comments have sparked widespread debate across political and civic spaces, with supporters echoing concerns about the independence of democratic institutions, while critics argue that such statements risk undermining public confidence in the electoral process.
Observers note that the controversy comes amid heightened political tension and shifting alliances ahead of future elections, with increasing scrutiny on the roles played by INEC and the judiciary in shaping party structures and leadership.
As of the time of filing this report, neither INEC nor the presidency has officially responded to Farotimi’s claims.
