The National President of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), Comrade ’Yinka Folarin, has rejected his purported appointment as a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Committee in Ogun State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Folarin, in a letter dated September 15, 2026, and addressed to the Ogun State Chairman of the APC, stated that his name and telephone number were listed under the Trade Union–Civil Society Affairs Committee of the party’s campaign structure.
While expressing appreciation for the confidence reposed in him, he clarified that he is neither a member of the APC nor any other political party.
Folarin explained that he has deliberately maintained a non-partisan and independent position throughout his public advocacy, stressing that his responsibilities as the National President of CDHR demand strict independence, neutrality, and non-partisanship.
He said, “I am neither a member of the APC nor any other political party. I have deliberately maintained a non-partisan and independent position throughout my public advocacy.”
The CDHR president, who also serves as the Chairman of the Ogun 2027 Conversation, noted that the platform was established by a network of civil society and media organizations to promote constructive engagement with political parties, candidates, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, the media, and other stakeholders ahead of the 2027 elections.
According to him, his inclusion in a partisan campaign structure could create a perception inconsistent with the responsibilities and independence of the platforms he represents.
Folarin also requested that the APC leadership withdraw his name and contact details from the committee list, as well as from any related campaign materials or publications.
He, however, clarified that his decision should not be interpreted as a rejection of engagement with the APC or any other political party, noting that his inclusion might have been made in error.
Folarin reaffirmed his commitment to constructive, issue-based, and non-partisan engagement with all political actors in Ogun State.
He concluded that such engagement remains essential for promoting democracy, protecting human rights, and advancing good governance in the state.