2027: SDP the only credible alternative for Nigerians – Adebayo

• …We need transparent, credible elections – National Chairman

By Jude Opara, Abuja

The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the 2023 election, Prince Adewole Adebayo on Monday declared that the party is the only platform that is free for Nigerians to reclaim their country in the 2027 elections.

Prince Adebayo who spoke in Abuja during the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party said the strength of the SDP stems from the fact that the Nigerian people are with them because the party is about the only political party that is without one form of internal crisis or the other.

He equally took a swipe at the National Assembly for the passage of the Electoral Act which he noted has not shown the capacity to strengthen public confidence ahead of the general elections.

“As we prepare for the 2027 elections, there is the need to remove provisions in the electoral framework that could undermine transparency and voter participation. The hallmark of any law is when it is people friendly. When you make a law that appears to strangulate and undermine democracy, them such a law is undemocratic”.

Adebayo further stated that the party is very confident of the victory in 2027 because it has the history of winning such high stake election haven won the 1993 election.

“I can recall that Nigeria had previously conducted credible elections even during challenging periods, and the SDP recorded a historic victory in what is widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest elections in the country’s history.

“Therefore restoring confidence in the electoral system will encourage greater participation and strengthen democracy. The SDP remains committed to representing the interests of ordinary Nigerians, particularly those facing challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, unemployment, and limited access to essential services”.

He urged political actors to prioritise the welfare of citizens and work towards building a governance system that reflects the aspirations of the Nigerian people.

In his remarks, the National Chairman of the SDP, Professor Sadiq Abubakar also called for greater transparency and fairness in Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Abubakar who spoke after the ratification of his National Working Committee (NWC) as the substantive leadership of the party, urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the National Assembly to ensure that the provisions of the Electoral Act are fully implemented to guarantee free, fair and credible elections.

He noted that political parties and other stakeholders have continued to express concerns over certain aspects of the Electoral Act, emphasizing the need for reforms that will strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.

The SDP boss added that his party remains ready to actively participate in the 2027 elections, recalling that the party played a historic role in Nigeria’s democratic journey over three decades ago when it won what is widely regarded as one of the most credible elections in the country’s history.

“We want to assure Nigerians that we will not take their confidence for granted. The SDP will continue to work to provide the credible alternative that Nigerians desire,” he said.

Describing the meeting as historic, he said the peaceful and civil manner in which the party conducted its internal processes demonstrates the SDP’s commitment to democratic values and internal discipline.

He encouraged other political parties to emulate the party’s example in promoting democratic principles and responsible political conduct.

The SDP chairman also called on Nigerians and political stakeholders to work collectively towards strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring national progress.

At the meeting, the NEC also received and adopted the report on the state of the party presented by the National Secretary, Olu Agunloye.

The committee subsequently approved and ratified all decisions and actions taken by the National Working Committee (NWC) between March 2022 and March 2026.

The NEC meeting was attended by all the Zonal and the 36 state chairmen including that of Abuja.