By: Sunday Ameh
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, Adewole Adebayo, has ruled out any coalition with the African Democratic Congress, insisting that the party will not compromise its standards to accommodate politicians with questionable records.
Adebayo made this known while speaking on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State, where he disclosed that several prominent figures within the ADC had approached the SDP for a possible alliance ahead of future elections.
However, he said the SDP remains firmly committed to ethical governance and would not engage in political arrangements that contradict its founding principles.
“We cannot compromise our platform by harbouring individuals whose previous leadership records have been problematic,” Adebayo said. “Those who have failed to deliver on promises, who have been implicated in mismanagement, and who have not shown respect for the welfare of Nigerians cannot form part of our vision.”
The former presidential candidate stressed that the SDP was established as a credible alternative to existing political structures, not as a platform for recycling politicians.
According to him, the party’s focus is on building a system rooted in accountability, social justice, and competence, rather than aligning with established political figures for convenience.
“Our party is not set up for political games or opportunistic alliances,” he added. “We are here to provide solutions, to serve Nigerians, and to create opportunities for credible leaders with integrity.”
Adebayo also drew a distinction between the SDP and other opposition parties, particularly the ADC, which has attracted prominent political figures in recent times. He maintained that popularity or political weight does not override the need for ethical leadership.
On allegations of interference by the ruling All Progressives Congress in opposition parties, Adebayo acknowledged that such pressures exist but warned that they must not derail the SDP’s mission.
“Politics is what it is, and there may be attempts to destabilise opposition platforms,” he said. “But our focus is not on political distractions. Our focus is on addressing insecurity, unemployment, poor healthcare, and economic hardship facing Nigerians.”
He emphasised that the party’s priority remains delivering practical solutions to everyday challenges, rather than engaging in inter-party conflicts.
Speaking on his recent visit to Plateau State, where he met with victims of violent attacks during the Easter period, Adebayo criticised what he described as distant leadership, noting that true governance requires direct engagement with affected communities.
“It is not enough to make statements from afar,” he said. “Leadership means being present, listening to the people, and taking immediate action to support them in times of crisis.”
Adebayo said the SDP’s intervention in Plateau was driven by humanitarian concerns, not political gain, adding that the party remains committed to a governance model that prioritises the welfare and safety of citizens.
Reiterating the party’s philosophy, he said the SDP would continue to maintain high standards in its leadership selection process.
“We are building a party that is focused on results, not rhetoric,” he said. “Only individuals with proven integrity, patriotism, and competence will find a place in our platform.”
He concluded that the party’s long-term vision is to create a credible political alternative capable of delivering meaningful change, insisting that Nigerians deserve leaders who are accountable, transparent, and committed to national development.
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