Professor Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman Joins APC, Sparks Controversy Over NILDS Ethics

Ilorin, Kwara State– Professor Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman, Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), has officially aligned himself with the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State.

Meanwhile, the development has sparked controversy regarding a potential breach of NILDS’ ethical guidelines.

Sulaiman’s affiliation with the APC, a prominent political party in Nigeria, has led to concerns about the neutrality of his role at NILDS.

However,  some stakeholders have argued that his political involvement might compromise the institute’s commitment to impartiality and democratic principles.

In a statement released on Tuesday, by  Mustafa Salman Isowo, the Secretary of the party in the state via his Facebook page.

According to him, “The party received the Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Prof. Abubakar Suleiman @profaosulaiman and his team officially to the APC in the state capital, Ilorin.

“In his speech at his visitation to the State Party Secretariat, he pledged full participation and commitment to promoting the party APC across board as APC is his home and he is happy to be back home.

“This development is as a result of the good developmental strides initiated and achieved under the leadership of the Executive Governor of Kwara State & Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) Mall. Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, CON @realaarahman .

He added that the DG was warmly received by members of the State Working Committee of the Party.

In July 2024, Professor Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman, the Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), refuted claims of affiliation with the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He dismissed viral graphics featuring the APC logo alongside his image as false and unauthentic.

Meanwhile, in a press statement, issued by Faruq Atofarati, Special Assistant on Special Duties to the DG of NILDS, described the claims as misinformation.

He emphasized that the DG remains committed to democratic principles and, therefore, is not aligned with any political party.

The statement read, “It has come to our attention that certain platforms are disseminating content that suggests Professor Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman is affiliated with a specific political party. We would like to formally address and clarify this matter.

“Professor Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman currently serves as the Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS). This esteemed position mandates strict adherence to a non-partisan stance, ensuring that NILDS remains an impartial and objective institution dedicated to enhancing legislative practices and promoting democratic governance in Nigeria.”

Atofarati noted that as the Director-General, Professor Sulaiman is committed to upholding these principles and, consequently, cannot belong to any political party.

He added that any content or statements suggesting otherwise do not reflect the truth of his professional and ethical commitments.

“We sincerely thank all parties and individuals for their continued support and understanding. Professor Sulaiman deeply appreciates your encouragement and stands committed to serving the nation in his current capacity. When the time comes and his position permits, he will duly inform his supporters and the public about his political affiliations.

“We urge the public and media outlets to rely on verified and official sources for accurate information regarding Professor Sulaiman’s activities and affiliations,” he said.

When Afrika Eyes contacted Professor Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman, the Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), for a comment, he did not answer calls or respond to message.