SUNTV Global Channel | Politics & Democracy Report
Date: Sunday, August 9, 2026
By SUNTV Global News Desk
OSOGBO, Osun State, Nigeria — The African Action Congress (AAC) has criticised the reported directive by the Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, restricting presidential candidates other than President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from campaigning in Osun State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party described the reported statement by the traditional ruler as a threat to democratic participation, insisting that no monarch or individual has the constitutional authority to determine which political candidates can seek the support of Nigerian voters.
In a statement released on Sunday, AAC National Publicity Secretary, Rex I. Elanu, said Osun State belongs to its citizens and not to any traditional institution, political party or individual.
“Osun State belongs to its people, not to any monarch, political party or individual. No traditional ruler has the constitutional authority to determine who can or cannot seek the votes of Nigerians,” the party stated.
The AAC argued that Nigeria’s Constitution guarantees citizens and political candidates the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and movement.
The party also maintained that electoral activities are regulated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and relevant electoral laws, not by traditional institutions or political interests.
AAC called on INEC and security agencies to take action over what it described as an attempt to limit political participation in the state.
The party further warned against using traditional institutions for partisan political purposes, saying such actions could undermine Nigeria’s democratic process.
The opposition party declared that its presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, would continue with campaign activities in Osun State despite the reported pronouncement.
“Nigeria is a constitutional democracy, not a monarchy. Sowore will campaign in Osun. AAC will campaign across Nigeria. It is Nigerians, not traditional rulers, who will decide who governs Nigeria in 2027,” the party said.
The development has added to growing political discussions ahead of the 2027 general elections, with stakeholders calling for respect for democratic freedoms and equal opportunity for all political parties.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor political developments ahead of the 2027 elections.
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