By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
Prince Adewole Adebayo, the 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has reaffirmed his party’s commitment to ethical governance, insisting that the party will not compromise its principles by aligning with politicians whose records do not meet its standards.
Speaking on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese Ijebu, on Wednesday, Adebayo revealed that some prominent figures within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) had reached out to the SDP to explore a possible coalition aimed at challenging the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He, however, dismissed the proposal, stressing that the SDP’s founding values remain non-negotiable. According to him, the party was established to provide Nigerians with a credible alternative rooted in social democracy, fairness, accountability, and integrity.
Adebayo maintained that the SDP’s position is not driven by political rivalry or personal grievances but by a deliberate effort to ensure that leadership is reserved for Nigerians with proven records of patriotism, competence, and ethical conduct.
He drew a clear distinction between the SDP and other opposition platforms, particularly the ADC, noting that several high-profile politicians—including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and Rotimi Amaechi—have been linked to opposition realignments.
“We cannot compromise our platform by harboring individuals whose previous leadership records have been problematic or who have been complicit in misgovernance,” he said. “Those who have failed to deliver on promises, or who have been associated with mismanagement, cannot fit into our vision for a better Nigeria.”
Adebayo added that the SDP was not created as a platform for recycling political figures but as a transformative movement focused on delivering social welfare, security, and economic development.
“Our party is not for political games or opportunistic alliances,” he said. “We are building a platform for credible, patriotic leaders who can deliver real change to Nigerians.”
Focus on governance, not political distractions
Addressing concerns about alleged interference by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in opposition politics, Adebayo acknowledged such challenges but insisted they should not distract from the SDP’s core mission.
“Politics is what it is, and attempts may be made to destabilize opposition platforms,” he said. “But our focus remains the failure of governance in areas like security, jobs, healthcare, and infrastructure.”
He stressed that the SDP is committed to practical solutions rather than political infighting, adding that Nigerians deserve leaders focused on improving lives rather than engaging in elite struggles.
Humanitarian engagement in Plateau State
While in Plateau State, Adebayo said he had been engaging communities affected by recent attacks during the Easter period, describing the visit as humanitarian rather than political.
He criticized what he described as superficial condolence visits by leaders, insisting that genuine leadership requires direct engagement with affected communities.
“We went into the heart of the communities, spoke with survivors, families, and security agencies,” he said. “Leadership is about presence, support, and action—not symbolic visits.”
He also called for proactive security measures, arguing that government responses must go beyond statements and ceremonies.
SDP’s ideology and standards
Adebayo reiterated that the SDP is guided by accountability, social welfare, and the emergence of credible leadership.
“The SDP is for Nigerians committed to ethical governance and real reform,” he said. “We are not interested in political convenience or recycled leadership.”
He noted that growing support from groups such as Afenifere reflects increasing trust in the party’s ideology and direction.
According to him, the SDP remains committed to maintaining strict entry standards for members and leaders.
Rejecting ‘big-man politics’
On why the SDP does not attract major political heavyweights in the same way as other parties, Adebayo said the party deliberately maintains strict ethical boundaries.
“We refuse to recycle leaders whose records reflect past governance failures,” he said. “Our goal is to build a clean, credible platform that prioritizes Nigerians, not political elites.”
He concluded that the SDP’s mission is to build a new political culture anchored on integrity, competence, and service to the public.
“We are creating a platform for a new generation of leadership that will move Nigeria forward with accountability and purpose,” he said.
