The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) for the 2027 general election, Adewole Adebayo, has issued a stark warning that Nigeria's democracy is facing unprecedented threats. He alleged that the country is steadily drifting toward authoritarian rule under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Adebayo emerges as SDP consensus candidate
Speaking after his emergence as the consensus candidate at the party's national convention in Bauchi, Adebayo emphasized that the 2027 elections would be a defining moment for preserving democratic governance and political plurality in Nigeria. The former presidential candidate accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to weaken opposition politics and centralize political power, warning that democratic freedoms are being systematically eroded.
According to Adebayo, the nation faces a danger greater than a mere one-party state, as the political system is being shaped around the dominance of a single individual. He alleged that institutions designed to safeguard democracy, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), are increasingly subject to political influence and no longer operate with full independence.
Allegations of government interference
Adebayo further accused the federal government of interfering in opposition parties and exerting pressure on political actors perceived as threats to the ruling establishment. He claimed that internal democracy within the APC has weakened significantly, with decisions concentrated in the hands of a few individuals. The SDP flag bearer also asserted that President Tinubu is extending his political influence beyond the APC by seeking to shape the direction and leadership of other political parties in the country.
He described the successful conduct of the SDP convention as proof that opposition politics remains active, despite alleged attempts by unnamed interests to frustrate the gathering. Adebayo commended Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, for providing an enabling atmosphere for the convention to hold peacefully.
Call for unity and preparation for 2027
Calling for unity among opposition forces, the SDP candidate urged Nigerians across political, ethnic, and religious divides to work together against corruption, insecurity, economic hardship, and injustice. He maintained that the SDP is preparing seriously for the 2027 elections and expressed confidence that the party would secure victory at the presidential poll while also making gains in governorship, National Assembly, and state assembly elections nationwide.
Adebayo said the party's focus is to build a government driven by accountability, economic recovery, security, and improved welfare for citizens. He stressed that Nigerians deserve leadership rooted in service and national development rather than personal ambition.
