Adewole Adebayo, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has warned that Nigeria is gradually drifting toward what he described as a “one-man rule” under the current political system.
Speaking during an interview on the state of Nigeria’s democracy and preparations ahead of the 2027 elections, Adebayo expressed concern over the growing concentration of political power and weakening democratic institutions in the country.
According to him, democracy should not revolve around incumbents, governors, or political office holders alone, but must focus on the welfare, voices, and aspirations of ordinary Nigerians. He argued that the country’s political space is increasingly dominated by opportunism, defections, and personality-driven politics rather than ideology and good governance.
Adebayo also criticized the culture of politicians moving between parties for personal interests, insisting that many political actors only speak against injustice when they are out of power. He maintained that the SDP remains committed to principles, accountability, credible elections, and policies focused on insecurity, poverty reduction, employment, healthcare, and education.
The SDP chieftain further declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, stating that Nigeria must not allow the next election cycle to become “another coronation” of failed political leadership.
Adebayo urged Nigerians to actively participate in the democratic process, stressing that the future of the country depends more on the people than on individual politicians or ruling parties.
