Adebayo emerges SDP presidential candidate for 2027
By Henry Nnaemeka
Prince Adewole Adebayo has emerged as the Social Democratic Party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections following his unanimous adoption at the party’s national convention held in Bauchi on Saturday.
Adebayo, who was the sole aspirant for the ticket, was adopted by consensus by delegates from the 36 states of the federation during the convention, which also featured the election of new members of the party’s National Working Committee.
In his acceptance speech, the SDP flagbearer expressed concern over worsening economic hardship, insecurity and what he described as poor leadership in the country.
He lamented the rising unemployment rate among young Nigerians, stating that many graduates could no longer secure jobs, while millions lacked access to quality healthcare and decent living conditions.
“Why would Nigerians be hiding from immigration in China when I have a country of my own? Why are countries calling me a criminal when I have a country of my own?” he said.
Adebayo also criticised members of the political elite for seeking medical treatment abroad and investing heavily outside the country while ordinary Nigerians struggled with poor infrastructure and inadequate healthcare.
According to him, it was unacceptable that political leaders acquired properties overseas while many Nigerian women still gave birth under unsafe conditions due to the poor state of healthcare facilities.
On insecurity, the SDP candidate alleged complicity between some elements within government and criminal groups, questioning what he described as the “back and forth” relationship between security agencies and terrorists.
He commended Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, for allowing the party to hold its convention in the state despite what he alleged were attempts by unnamed forces to frustrate the gathering.
Describing the governor as “a true representative of democracy,” Adebayo praised him as a worthy successor to the ideals of the late Aminu Kano.
The SDP leader also warned that Nigeria was drifting towards “one-man rule,” stressing that democracy could only survive through the protection of multiparty politics and freedom of association.
“People have told me Nigeria is at the verge of a one-party state, but the real danger is that we are at the verge of one-man rule,” he said.
He added that even members of the ruling All Progressives Congress were facing internal suppression because major decisions within the party were allegedly being controlled by one individual.
Adebayo maintained that Nigeria needed political diversity and ideological competition among parties committed to the unity and progress of the country.
