Turning to domestic politics, Ogun commented on the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) warning that political parties must not replace candidates who legitimately emerged from party primaries with individuals who did not participate in those contests.
INEC recently reiterated that only candidates who emerged through valid primary elections conducted in accordance with the Electoral Act can be submitted for general elections.
The electoral body warned political parties against manipulating primary election outcomes through unauthorized substitutions, except in circumstances expressly permitted by law, such as death or voluntary withdrawal of a candidate.
Ogun stressed that political parties must respect internal democratic processes and comply fully with electoral laws governing candidate selection.
He said allowing individuals who did not participate in party primaries to replace validly nominated candidates would undermine public confidence in Nigeria's democratic process.
He also urged INEC to remain firm in enforcing the provisions of the Electoral Act to preserve the credibility of future elections.
Concluding his remarks, Ogun emphasized that both Nigeria's domestic institutions and its international engagements should be anchored on the rule of law.
He maintained that legal mechanisms not violence, political interference or administrative shortcuts remain the most effective means of resolving disputes, protecting citizens' rights and strengthening democratic governance.
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