2027: SDP’s Adebayo declares readiness to succeed Tinubu, promises better governance

The 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Adewole Adebayo, has declared that he is ready to take over leadership from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, insisting he would provide better governance for Nigerians.

Adebayo made the statement during a weekend interview while reacting to the announcement by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the timetable for the 2027 general elections. He said that while opposition parties are preparing for the polls, the more important question is whether Nigerians themselves are ready to change their government.

“The opposition being ready is a given. What is more important is whether the people are ready. If you ask me if I am ready to take over from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and govern the country better, yes, I am ready, even today,” he said.

The SDP chieftain added that he is surrounded by competent individuals capable of providing clear direction for the country, adding “You can drive me to the Aso Rock Villa now and ask me to take over, and you will see a better result today, not tomorrow. I am better prepared, better intentioned and surrounded by better people with a clearer vision”.

He also called on Nigerians to vote out members of the National Assembly, accusing lawmakers of passing electoral laws that favour the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Reacting to threats by the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) to boycott elections if the Electoral Act is not amended, Adebayo said the demand for a better electoral law is legitimate but stressed that political parties must continue preparing for elections.

He also rejected calls for a broad opposition coalition aimed solely at defeating Tinubu, criticising some politicians who recently joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He said many were part of past governments responsible for Nigeria’s problems.

Looking ahead to 2027, Adebayo said his ambition is to form the next government rather than being in perpetual opposition, adding that his political future ultimately depends on the Nigerian electorate.

“My job in the opposition is to form the next government. I want to be president and commander-in-chief. My presidency is in the hands of God and the Nigerian people. When the people are ready, we will come,” he said.