In the evolving landscape of Nigeria’s multiparty democracy, few developments illustrate the contradictions between party discipline, personal political ambition, and constitutional ambiguity as vividly as the ongoing controversy surrounding Hon. Leke Ajibade, the member representing Yagba Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
Hon. Ajibade remains the only federal lawmaker whose expulsion from his party—the African Democratic Congress (ADC)—was ratified by the National Executive Committee (NEC), yet he continues to sit in the Green Chamber. His situation raises profound questions about the supremacy of political parties, the limits of legislative autonomy, and the resilience of Nigeria’s democratic structures.
A Lawmaker Walking Two Paths
The ADC’s decision to expel Hon. Ajibade followed allegations that he was working for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), especially within Kogi State’s political environment. The matter gained prominence after a viral video emerged showing former Governor Yahaya Bello openly promising Ajibade a prominent role in Governor Usman Ododo’s campaign. Bello’s words—“You’ll lead Dodo’s campaign rally; after that, we’ll consider you after Gov. Ododo’s tenure”—only entrenched concerns that the lawmaker had drifted from his party’s ideology.
To many within the ADC, Ajibade’s alleged political romance with the APC amounted to a betrayal. To a growing number of voters within Yagba Federal Constituency, it positioned him as an “enemy of power shift,” a label reflecting deeper frustrations over political rotation and representation in Kogi State.
INEC Rejects the Factional Project
The tension heightened when Hon. Ajibade reportedly attempted to stage a factional ADC congress in Kogi State, a move many observers interpreted as an effort to create a parallel structure loyal to him. However, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) decisively rejected the executives that emerged from the exercise, effectively shutting down the attempted takeover.
INEC’s position underscored a critical principle: no individual, regardless of their political weight, can arbitrarily bend party structures to their personal advantage. This rejection not only weakened Ajibade’s political manoeuvre but strengthened the legitimacy of the ADC’s national leadership.
Does the Constitution Allow Independent Candidates?
Ajibade’s continued presence in the House has sparked inquiries about whether Nigeria permits independent candidacy—an option that might have freed him from party constraints.
The answer remains no.
Under the 1999 Constitution (as amended), every candidate seeking public office must do so under the platform of a registered political party. Although proposals for independent candidacy have surfaced during constitutional review processes, none has secured legislative approval.
However, the law does not automatically remove a legislator from office simply because their party expels them. Removal would require a formal declaration of defection or evidence that the lawmaker has joined another political party. This is the constitutional gap Ajibade currently occupies—expelled but not formally declared to have defected.
The Yagba Factor: Politics of Trust and Power Rotation
Back home in Yagba Federal Constituency, the political temperature is different. Agitations for power shift in Kogi State have gained intensity, especially among communities who feel marginalized. For many constituents, Ajibade’s perceived closeness to APC power brokers in the state reinforces fears that he is working against the broader struggle for equitable power distribution.
Yet, a smaller group argues that his political connections might translate into influence and resources for Yagba, suggesting that politics is ultimately about strategic positioning.
A Moment of Truth for Nigeria’s Democracy
The Hon. Leke Ajibade saga goes beyond one man or one constituency; it is a mirror reflecting Nigeria’s broader democratic challenges. It exposes the fragile nature of party supremacy, the gaps in our constitutional framework, and the persistent tension between personal ambition and collective political identity.
As the nation looks ahead to future elections and possible constitutional amendments, Ajibade’s case will remain a reference point—an example of the need for clearer rules, stronger institutions, and a political culture grounded in accountability, transparency, and respect for party processes.
Whether Hon. Ajibade survives this storm politically or becomes a casualty of its turbulence remains to be seen. But what is clear is that Nigeria’s democracy must confront the contradictions his case has exposed.
– Ibrahim Ahmad writes from Lokoja.
