By, Omowumi Hannah

A constitutional lawyer, Barrister Adebisi Adeyemo, has stated that no Nigerian citizen can be barred from participating in elective politics based on chieftaincy expectations or eligibility for a traditional stool.

Barr. Adeyemo made this assertion amid concerns over alleged attempts to restrict the political ambitions of certain high-ranking chiefs in Oyo State, citing Sections 65 and 106 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantee the rights of qualified citizens to contest elective offices.

He emphasized that any attempt to introduce additional disqualification criteria outside the Constitution is legally untenable, and that the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters lacks the constitutional authority to restrict political rights or enforce customary expectations as binding legal obligations.

Adeyemo cited historical examples, including Oba Adesoji Aderemi, M.K.O. Abiola, and Nnamdi Azikiwe, who held traditional titles and participated in politics, to support his argument.

He maintained that High Chief Akeem Bolaji Adewoyin, High Chief Sarafadeen Abiodun Ali, and High Chief Kola Babalola retain their full constitutional rights to contest elections, participate in governance, and associate politically.

Meanwhile, Barr. Adeyemo urged stakeholders in Oyo State to respect constitutional provisions and avoid actions that could generate unnecessary tension, quoting Abraham Lincoln, “Elections belong to the people. It is their decision.”, he said.