Adebayo Announces 2027 Presidential Run, Critiques Tinubu Administration

Former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has officially declared his intention to run for the presidency in 2027. He criticized the current administration of President Bola Tinubu, stating it has failed Nigerians “in every aspect of governance.” Adebayo made his comments during an interview with ARISE News, emphasizing his commitment to strengthen the SDP ahead of the upcoming elections.

“I’ve informed my party that I’m running again, and everyone in my party knows that I’m running again,” Adebayo stated, highlighting ongoing efforts to enhance the party’s presence and attract new members. He acknowledged the challenges of integrating individuals from other political backgrounds but expressed determination to ensure that the SDP does not disappoint its supporters.

Adebayo noted that he remains loyal to the SDP, in contrast to other candidates from the 2023 election who have left their parties. “After every election, most candidates leave their parties. Among those who ran last time, probably only President Tinubu and I have remained in our parties,” he pointed out, asserting that the SDP is becoming stronger with increased membership and a stable executive.

The former presidential candidate addressed the recent departure of Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, from the SDP. He indicated that El-Rufai’s relationship with the party had ended, stating, “He wasn’t standing in my way at all. In fact, I wish we had more people like him who can work hard when they choose to.”

In discussing his vision for the 2027 campaign, Adebayo emphasized the need for governance to align with the Constitution and the principles of the Nigerian Republic. He criticized the Tinubu administration for its handling of critical issues, claiming it has neglected vital sectors, including security, education, and poverty alleviation.

“My duty is to stand with the people and remind those in government that they are failing,” Adebayo remarked. He expressed concern over the rising insecurity in Nigeria, citing the emergence of new terror groups and ongoing challenges from Boko Haram. “Today, you’re more likely to see officials taking selfies with terrorists than fighting them,” he added.

Adebayo also scrutinized the government’s economic policies, particularly its approach to poverty and development. “A hungry man who is hungry at 14:00 should not remain hungry by the end of the day if you have a working government,” he argued. He criticized the administration’s student loan policy, questioning its effectiveness amid poor infrastructure and recurring strikes that disrupt education.

“What’s the point of a student loan if lecturers are on strike and roads to the universities are bad?” Adebayo asked, revealing that his own scholarship program has increased in cost due to rising tuition and living expenses.

He further condemned the recent presidential pardons, labeling them as “a fiasco.” According to Adebayo, “Presidential clemency should reflect thoughtfulness, not criminal endorsement.” He urged Nigerians to reject any attempts to re-elect the Tinubu administration, warning that a second term would exacerbate the nation’s challenges.

“Every Nigerian who loves this country should want President Tinubu to be a one-term president,” he declared. “If failure lasts four years, someone else can clean up. But if failure is allowed another four years, it becomes a national tragedy.”

Addressing concerns about disunity among opposition parties, Adebayo suggested that media misinterpretation often exaggerates internal reforms. “When parties reform and correct internal issues, the media call it a crisis,” he explained. He assured that the SDP remains committed to its principles and is united in its mission.

“I’ve been in the SDP since 1991, when I was 19 years old,” Adebayo affirmed, promising to lead the party to success on behalf of the Nigerian people. His commitment to the SDP and his vision for the future are clear as he prepares for the election cycle ahead.