LP Chieftain Petitions Tinubu, NASS, CJN Over Osun REC Removal in 2027
In a significant development ahead of the 2027 general elections, Dr. Arabambi Abayomi, a prominent chieftain of the Labour Party (LP), has formally petitioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). The petition centers on the alleged unconstitutional removal of Barrister Mutiu Agboke, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Osun State, which Abayomi claims was orchestrated by the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN).
Allegations of Constitutional Breach
In an open letter dated April 16, 2026, which Abayomi read to journalists in Abuja on Thursday, he accused Prof. Amupitan of exceeding his constitutional powers by facilitating Agboke's transfer without due process. Abayomi emphasized that RECs are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, as outlined in the 1999 Constitution (as amended), and their removal must follow the same legal pathway. "Resident Electoral Commissioners are not appointees of the INEC Chairman. Their removal must follow the constitutional path—anything outside this is illegal and void," he stated, warning that this action sets a dangerous precedent for electoral integrity.
Due Process Ignored
Abayomi further argued that due process was blatantly ignored in Agboke's case, noting a lack of investigation or fair hearing. "Where is the committee of investigation? Where is the fair hearing? A public officer cannot be removed based on an unverified petition without being given the opportunity to defend himself. That is a direct violation of natural justice," he said. He linked the alleged removal to a partisan petition, describing it as "administrative anarchy" that threatens the safety of electoral officers and undermines democracy.
Questions Over Replacement
The LP chieftain also raised concerns about the reported replacement of Agboke with Mrs. Toyin Babalola, alleging that she had previously retired from INEC. He questioned the legality of her reappointment, stating, "How does a retired director return as a Resident Electoral Commissioner in the same institution? This is not a consultancy role; this is a constitutional office. It raises serious legal and ethical questions that must be investigated." Abayomi warned that such moves could erode public confidence in the electoral system, particularly in the South-West region as Nigeria approaches the 2027 polls.
Calls for Intervention
Abayomi urged President Tinubu to intervene decisively by reversing Agboke's alleged removal and halting Babalola's appointment. "Mr. President must act now to restore constitutional order. Allowing this precedent to stand will damage Nigeria’s democracy and weaken confidence in the 2027 elections," he warned. Additionally, he called on the National Assembly to strengthen its oversight role to ensure strict adherence to constitutional provisions governing electoral appointments, stressing that safeguarding electoral integrity is crucial for credible elections and democratic stability.
