Adewole Adebayo, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has suggested he may step down for Labour Party (LP) candidate Peter Obi in the 2027 general election. His remarks come as opposition leaders intensify consultations aimed at forming a united front to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Adebayo praised Obi’s political focus and seriousness, describing ongoing discussions among opposition leaders as “serious, quiet and honourable.” He made it clear that these engagements were not mere photo opportunities but purposeful dialogues aimed at achieving political change.
“I like what Obi is doing. He is serious-minded, focused and committed,” Adebayo said. When asked directly whether he would step aside for Obi, he responded, “That will come later. But from what I see, I like what he is doing.”
However, Adebayo ruled out supporting former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, saying he would not step down for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader. He also made it clear that neither he nor Atiku could dictate the direction of the SDP. “Neither I nor Atiku can use the SDP. The SDP belongs to the Nigerian people,” he stated. “What can happen is that people whose ideologies align with the SDP can join and compete in a free and democratic process.”
He was critical of recent high-profile defections and political declarations, dismissing them as distractions. According to Adebayo, lasting political change would come through strategic collaboration, not “empty rhetoric.” He also delivered a blunt assessment of Tinubu’s administration, accusing it of squandering the goodwill it enjoyed at the beginning of its tenure.
“Nigerians have given him two years to prove himself, and he is failing,” Adebayo asserted. “If this continues, the people will send him packing. He will go back to wherever he came from.”
His remarks have fueled speculation that a formidable opposition coalition may be in the making, with Peter Obi possibly emerging as its unifying figure. Yet, Adebayo was quick to clarify the SDP’s stance on coalition talks and denied reports that former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai was representing the party in such negotiations.
“The SDP, led by Shehu Gabam and Olu Agunloye, is not involved in any coalition led by somebody else,” Adebayo said. “He [Gabam] has not given me an assignment to do a coalition on his behalf, nor has he given any assignment to my senior brother, el-Rufai. El-Rufai is not representing SDP in any coalition.”
Adebayo’s comments underscore growing interest in a consolidated opposition effort, even as internal dynamics within parties like the SDP remain closely guarded.
