2027: Calls grow for Adebayo’s second SDP bid

Prince Adewole Adebayo, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, is increasingly being touted as a politician to watch ahead of the 2027 polls, as supporters urge him to make another bid for Nigeria’s highest office.

Adebayo, an Ondo State–born lawyer, businessman and public affairs commentator, contested the last election on the platform of the SDP and has remained loyal to the party despite reported overtures from other political parties.

One of his supporters, Nalado Yusuf, a politician and businessman based in Daura, Katsina State, cited Adebayo’s experience and background as key reasons he should return to the ballot in 2027.

Yusuf said Adebayo’s continued allegiance to the SDP underscores his image as a principled politician, rather than a “roving” aspirant in search of an electoral ticket.

He added that those advocating Adebayo’s return argue that his consistency and personal wealth suggest he is motivated by a desire to reform the country rather than by personal gain.

During the 2023 campaign, Adebayo ran under the slogan “Hope Again 2023,” which supporters believe could be reworked into a 2027 message centred on national “rescue,” particularly in response to Nigeria’s current economic and security challenges.

According to Yusuf, Adebayo’s blend of private-sector experience and public engagement positions him to address Nigeria’s complex governance issues.

“Security is another central concern. Insecurity, particularly in northern Nigeria, has disrupted economic and social life and requires decisive action, including better deployment of security forces and greater use of modern technology such as surveillance and intelligence-gathering tools. Education, agriculture and social welfare are also areas needing urgent attention,” Yusuf said.

On industrialisation, Yusuf called for the revival of moribund industries, the encouragement of new manufacturing ventures and incentives for investors. He also stressed the need to revitalise the civil service, ensure timely payment of salaries and pensions, clear debts owed to contractors and promote transparency in governance.

In making the case for Adebayo’s return, Yusuf pointed to historical precedent, noting that former President Muhammadu Buhari contested the presidency several times before eventually winning in 2015.