Adebayo criticizes Tinubu-Shettima ticket

• …says leadership should reflect justice and integrity

By Jude Opara

Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate Adewole Adebayo has criticised President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, arguing that their administration does not embody the values of justice, honesty and compassion expected of leaders.

Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Tuesday, monitored in Abuja, Adebayo dismissed the significance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)’s Muslim-Muslim ticket, insisting that religious identity should not be used as the basis for evaluating leadership.

According to him, the Tinubu-Shettima administration represents the opposite of the ideals that Islamic teachings encourage among those entrusted with public office.

He maintained that leadership should be defined by truth, fairness, kindness and accountability rather than religious affiliation, adding that Nigerians should focus on competence and character in choosing their leaders.

Adebayo’s remarks came amid renewed political discussions following President Tinubu’s decision to retain Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election.

There had been speculation in recent months that the APC might replace Shettima with a Christian vice-presidential candidate ahead of the polls.

However, the President recently confirmed that Shettima would remain on the party’s ticket for the 2027 election.

The SDP candidate’s comments add to the growing debate over religion, leadership and electoral choices as political parties prepare for the next general election.