Adewole Adebayo has emerged as the presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party for the 2027 general election after delegates unanimously endorsed him at the party’s national convention in Bauchi on Saturday.
Adebayo was the only aspirant for the ticket and received support from delegates across the 36 states. During the convention, the party also elected new members into its National Working Committee.
Speaking after his emergence, Adebayo warned that Nigeria was gradually moving toward authoritarian rule and political intolerance.
He said the country was facing serious problems, including economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, and poor governance.
He expressed concern over the growing number of unemployed youths and graduates, saying many Nigerians still lack access to quality healthcare and decent living conditions.
Adebayo also criticized political leaders for seeking medical treatment and investing abroad while ordinary Nigerians continue to struggle at home.
According to him, leaders should focus on improving healthcare and economic opportunities within the country.
On insecurity, he questioned the government’s handling of terrorism and criminal activities, stressing that Nigerians deserve safety and accountability from security agencies.
The SDP candidate thanked Bala Mohammed for allowing the convention to hold in Bauchi despite alleged pressure from some groups to stop it. He described the governor as a committed democrat.
Adebayo further warned against what he called “one man rule,” insisting that democracy can only survive when different political parties are allowed to compete freely and citizens are free to associate politically.
He also claimed that even members of the ruling All Progressives Congress were experiencing internal suppression, with major decisions allegedly controlled by one individual.
According to him, Nigeria needs genuine political competition and parties with clear ideas and policies to move the country forward.
