The 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Adewole Adebayo, has publicly declared his willingness to step down from his presidential ambitions in the 2027 elections if a better candidate emerges. Speaking on the popular socio-political program Inside Sources with Laolu Akande, Adebayo expressed his commitment to placing the interests of Nigeria above personal ambition, emphasizing the need for unity and progress in the country.
“Everybody knows that I have an aspiration. I’m working on it but God is the author of tomorrow; we don’t even know who is going to be around in 2027,” Adebayo stated. “It is my prayer to God that if there is a person who God thinks is better than me to fix the problem of Nigeria, my ambition should not stop that person because we want a country that works. That is the kind of thing we are working on at this time.”
Adebayo’s remarks reflect a growing sentiment among opposition figures that Nigeria needs a unified front to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). His willingness to step aside underscores a broader strategy within the SDP to present a candidate capable of uniting the country and unseating President Bola Tinubu in the next presidential election.
The SDP, once considered a minor player in Nigerian politics, has gained momentum in recent months as a potential vehicle for opposition unity. Adebayo’s pledge to prioritize the party’s success over personal ambition aligns with the SDP’s stated goal of presenting a candidate that all Nigerians can be proud of. “We want to give Nigerians a candidate that all citizens would be proud of and be ready to give a chance,” he said.
The SDP’s recent outreach efforts have caught the attention of prominent figures across the political spectrum, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra governor Peter Obi, and ex-Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai. These leaders, who have expressed interest in joining the SDP, are reportedly drawn to its promise of inclusivity and its rejection of divisive tactics based on religion and ethnicity.
Adebayo emphasized that the SDP would not perpetuate the divisive narratives that have plagued Nigerian politics for decades. “What used to be an easy discussion—with religion and ethnicity—has become explosive now. So, we will not use the SDP forum to try to bifurcate our people into different zones,” he said. “What we are looking for now is a system where when we make a choice in the SDP, there will be resounding joy outside the SDP and Nigerians will say: ‘Okay, finally, this platform has given the country a chance.’”
This vision of a united Nigeria resonates deeply with many Nigerians who have grown weary of political infighting and ethnic polarization. By positioning itself as a neutral ground for cross-party collaboration, the SDP aims to attract voters disillusioned with the current political landscape.
The 2027 presidential race looms large as opposition figures grapple with the challenges of uniting under a single banner. Recent discussions around an inter-party alliance reached a crescendo when Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai announced plans to form a coalition aimed at ousting President Tinubu. The coalition’s numerical strength, bolstered by Atiku’s second-place finish and Obi’s third-place showing in the 2023 polls, presents a formidable challenge to the APC.
However, the coalition faces significant hurdles, including internal divisions and legal challenges. Court cases arising from intra-party squabbles and protracted leadership crises have plagued the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP), prompting some politicians to seek refuge in the SDP. Already, El-Rufai and his supporters have joined the SDP, while talks persist about Atiku and Obi potentially doing the same.
Adebayo acknowledged the influx of high-profile figures into the SDP, noting that the party would “disinfect” all newcomers to ensure they do not bring baggage from their previous affiliations. “If you want to come to the SDP, you have to make sure that you allow us to apply disinfectant, not because we don’t respect you but because you are coming from a highly infected zone,” he said.
The SDP’s stringent vetting process reflects its commitment to maintaining integrity and transparency. Adebayo explained that the party’s constitution and guidelines are meticulously crafted to prevent contamination by external influences, particularly those rooted in criminality, bribery, or divisive politics. “Whatever your job is, leave it at the door because this political party is not about politicians; it’s about the Nigerian people,” he emphasized.
As the SDP prepares for the 2027 elections, its approach to leadership and governance stands in stark contrast to the divisive tactics of the past. By prioritizing unity, inclusivity, and a focus on national progress, the party seeks to redefine the political narrative in Nigeria. Adewole Adebayo’s willingness to step aside for a stronger candidate underscores the party’s commitment to putting the country’s interests above personal ambition.
The SDP’s growing appeal among disgruntled politicians and disillusioned voters suggests a promising future for the party. However, success will depend on its ability to maintain cohesion and deliver on its promises. As Nigeria braces for another round of elections, the SDP’s journey toward becoming a viable alternative to the ruling APC remains a topic of keen interest for observers and participants alike.
