2027: Adebayo emerges SDP sole presidential candidate
Adebayo Selected as SDP Sole Presidential Candidate for 2027 Election
By Henry Umoru, ABUJA
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has officially named Adewale Adebayo as its sole presidential candidate for the upcoming 2027 election. This designation took place during the party’s national convention on Saturday in Bauchi State, where Femi Olaniyi Farrari, the Lagos State chairman and chairman of the party’s state chairmen, proposed the motion, receiving unanimous support from delegates.
The convention concluded with the election of new national officers through a consensus voice vote, reflecting internal unity and adherence to the party’s constitutional framework. The event was notably orderly, featuring candidate screenings and affirmations, with many positions filled without opposition.
Among those elected were Chief Lekan Alabi as Leader of Persons with Disabilities, Mrs. Rosemary Ediom as National Welfare Officer, Hon. Daniel Ibe as National Youth Leader, and Ajiya Sandra Ubakari as National Woman Leader. Mr. Bello Adu Osunmi and Barrister Akibola were elected National General Secretary and National Legal Adviser, respectively. Additional positions included Barrister Joseph Abung as National Organising Secretary and Araba Rufus Aiyenigba as National Publicity Secretary. Professor Sadiq Umar Gombe was affirmed as National Chairman.
Prof. Usman Bugaje, the convention chairman, commended attendees for their loyalty to the party and criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the judiciary for allegedly aiding the ruling party in undermining democratic institutions and suppressing opposition.
“The ruling party is intent on blocking the political space and stifling competition,” Bugaje said, urging Nigerian citizens to remain vigilant against oppression.
National Secretary Dr. Olu Agunloye emphasized that the SDP has successfully resisted efforts by external forces to destabilize its structure and has reestablished its ideological identity. He described the SDP as Nigeria’s second oldest political party, rooted in social justice and equality.
Agunloye also highlighted the party’s achievements in recent elections, noting wins in multiple senatorial and state assembly positions. He stated that the SDP is well-positioned as a credible opposition ahead of the 2027 elections, pledging a commitment to internal democracy and constitutional adherence.
Prof. Gombe, newly elected as National Chairman, thanked the delegates for their trust and vowed to lead the party with transparency and strict governance according to both the SDP constitution and national laws.
The convention marked a significant moment for the SDP as it prepares for the upcoming electoral landscape, emphasizing internal cohesion and a clear strategic direction for the future.
