“Ambush And Intimidation Cannot Build Democracy” — Chatham House Member Ajiboye Condemns Harassment Of INEC Chairman

A United Kingdom-based Nigerian and member of Chatham House, Tunmise Ajiboye, has condemned the confrontation, harassment and blocking of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, by protesters in London, calling on UK authorities to investigate the incident and hold anyone found responsible accountable under the law.

Amupitan was in London to deliver an address on Nigeria’s 2027 general elections and democratic trajectory at Chatham House during an event organised in partnership with the Kimpact Development Initiative when the incident occurred.

In a statement made available on Saturday, Ajiboye said Chatham House remained one of the world’s respected platforms for policy dialogue, international affairs and democratic engagement.

He expressed disappointment that the event was marred by what he described as an ambush outside the venue and near the UK Parliament area.

According to him, Amupitan’s vehicle was surrounded and blocked until security personnel and Chatham House officials intervened.

“As a member of Chatham House, I understand the value of this institution as a space where leaders, policymakers, academics, and citizens exchange ideas freely and respectfully.

“To turn the environment around such an institution into a scene of intimidation and mob action is a betrayal of the very democratic principles such engagements seek to promote,” Ajiboye said.

He described the conduct as unacceptable, stressing that no Nigerian, whether at home or in the diaspora, should support the harassment of a public official carrying out official duties.

Ajiboye maintained that an electoral umpire should be held accountable through proper democratic channels rather than subjected to harassment before the 2027 elections had even taken place.

He also aligned himself with the position of former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani, who had condemned the incident as an unfair and premature attack on an electoral referee.

Ajiboye described Sani’s position as responsible and consistent with democratic values.

While acknowledging the right of Nigerians to demand free, fair and credible elections in 2027, Ajiboye said legitimate grievances must be expressed lawfully.

“Ambush, intimidation, and mob action cannot produce the democracy we claim to desire. They only weaken public confidence, embarrass Nigeria before the international community, and create an atmosphere where violence replaces dialogue,” he said.

Ajiboye called on UK authorities to investigate the incident thoroughly.

He also urged Nigerians in the diaspora to channel their frustrations through lawful advocacy, voter education, constructive engagement with INEC and peaceful democratic participation.

“Nigeria’s democracy will not be saved by disorder. It will be saved by credible institutions, responsible citizens, peaceful participation, and respect for the rule of law,” Ajiboye added.

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