The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has chosen Professor Adewole Adebayo as its presidential candidate for the 2027 election.
He emerged as the party’s sole presidential candidate during the 2026 National Convention and Presidential Primaries, held on Saturday in Bauchi.
Adebayo, the sole aspirant for the presidential ticket was elected by consensus during the convention.
Delegates from all 36 states of the federation endorsed his candidacy, in a gathering that also produced new members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC).
Professor Sadiq Gombe was also endorsed as the National Chairman of the party during the convention, marking a significant step in the SDP’s preparations for the 2027 elections.
His endorsement came after motions moved by party leaders, including state chairmen, which were overwhelmingly supported by delegates.
In his acceptance speech following his emergence, he lamented the economic hardship, insecurity, and poor leadership confronting Nigerians, warning that the country was drifting dangerously toward authoritarianism and political intolerance.
He highlighted the worsening unemployment crisis among young people, noting that graduates increasingly struggle to secure jobs while many citizens remain deprived of basic healthcare and decent living conditions.
Adebayo also criticized the indignities faced by Nigerians abroad, questioning why citizens should be treated as criminals or forced to hide in foreign countries when they have a nation of their own.
“People have told me that Nigeria is at the verge of a one-party state, but I said the real danger is that we are at the verge of one-man rule,” he said.
Also, in a post on his X handle, Adebayo said, “I am deeply honoured to have emerged as the SDP Presidential Candidate for the 2027 election at our National Convention in Bauchi.
“I joined this race because Nigeria must be rescued from hunger, homelessness, joblessness, insecurity, and leadership failure. As I said in Bauchi, ‘Nigeria is not a private company. Nigeria belongs to Nigerians.’
“This movement is not about one man. It is about restoring hope, defending democracy, and giving the Nigerian people a government that truly works in their interest.
“Together, we will move Nigeria from poverty and division to productivity, unity, and progress.”
“The future is possible, and together, we will build a New Nigeria that works for everyone,” he added.
