Adebisi Adeyemo, a constitutional lawyer, has affirmed that no Nigerian citizen can be barred from participating in elective politics on the basis of chieftaincy eligibility or expectations for a traditional stool.
His statement comes amid concerns that administrative and customary pressures might be used to limit the political ambitions of prominent high chiefs in Oyo State, including Bolaji Adewoyin, Sarafadeen Alli, and Kola Babalola.
The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, is scheduled to formally present the staff of office to the three as newly elevated crown-wearing Obas in Ibadanland.
However, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, confirmed on Thursday that the chiefs had informed him of their unavailability for the planned coronation ceremony.
In a Friday statement, Adeyemo emphasized that the 1999 Constitution remains the supreme legal authority on matters of political participation, irrespective of traditional titles.
He highlighted Section 1 of the Constitution, noting that it overrides all other authorities and individuals, rendering any conflicting actions null and void.
Citing Sections 65 and 106, Adeyemo underscored the right of all qualified citizens to contest elective positions, pointing out that Sections 66 and 107 specify the only grounds for disqualification—none of which pertain to chieftaincy status or expectations.
“Any attempt to introduce additional disqualification criteria outside the Constitution is legally untenable,” Adeyemo stated.
He also addressed the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, noting that the ministry lacks constitutional authority to impose political restrictions or enforce customary expectations as binding legal obligations.
According to him, any interference of this nature would be ultra vires, constitutionally invalid, and subject to judicial review.
Adeyemo clarified the distinction between eligibility for a traditional stool and legal obligations.
“Individuals who are merely eligible or nominated political neutrality,” he said.
To reinforce his argument, the lawyer cited historical examples illustrating the compatibility of traditional status and political engagement.
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He referenced Oba Adesoji Aderemi, the Ooni of Ife, who served as Governor of the Western Region from 1960 to 1962 while maintaining his traditional title.
Similarly, he mentioned MKO Abiola, who held multiple chieftaincy titles while contesting the 1993 presidential election, and Nnamdi Azikiwe, who maintained traditional titles while becoming Nigeria’s first President.
He also highlighted Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, who voluntarily accepted traditional rulership after a career in public service.
Applying these principles to the current situation, Adeyemo maintained that Adewoyin, Alli, and Babalola retain full constitutional rights to contest elections, participate in governance, and engage politically.
He described any attempt to limit their rights based on chieftaincy expectations as legally unfounded, administratively improper, and constitutionally void.
The lawyer urged all stakeholders in Oyo State to respect constitutional provisions and avoid actions that could generate unnecessary tension.
“Political disagreements must remain within lawful bounds, and misinterpretation of the law must not be used as a tool for conflict,” he cautioned.
Adeyemo concluded by reaffirming the Constitution’s clarity on the matter. “Chieftaincy expectations cannot be imposed as legal obligations.
Political participation is a fundamental constitutional right, and any attempt to curtail it outside the provisions of the Constitution is null and void,” he said.
Quoting former United States President Abraham Lincoln, he added, “Elections belong to the people. It is their decision.”
He stressed that the rights of the affected high chiefs remain fully protected under the law and called for strict adherence to constitutional principles to ensure peace, stability, and democratic progress.