Prince Adewole Adebayo, the presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the 2023 general election, has indicated a willingness to consider stepping aside for Peter Obi in the 2027 presidential race, while firmly ruling out a similar arrangement with Atiku Abubakar.
Adebayo made these remarks during an appearance on Channels Television’s “Politics Today” on Wednesday, responding to increasing speculation about a potential opposition coalition ahead of the next polls.
According to Adebayo, discreet discussions and plans are currently underway among opposition figures to unseat President Bola Tinubu, with Peter Obi identified as a significant participant in these talks.
He stressed that the ultimate decision regarding the 2027 presidency rests with Nigerians, not through political defections or propaganda.
Adebayo asserted that President Tinubu is on a trajectory to lose the 2027 election, stating that Nigerians have given him two years to demonstrate effective governance.
“I like what he’s doing. He’s serious-minded. He is having meaningful discussion, quiet discussion, honourable discussion,” Adebayo said, seemingly referring to Obi’s approach to potential coalition building.
When pressed on whether he would step down for Obi, Adebayo responded, “That will come later, but for what I see, I like what he’s doing.”
Adebayo further disclosed that the SDP is actively engaging with individuals outside the party and making progress in these discussions. He emphasized that the strategy to unseat Tinubu is “solid but underground,” focusing on resolving differences and presenting a united front against the ruling party, rather than on public photo opportunities or courtesy calls.
However, Adebayo was unequivocal about his stance on Atiku Abubakar. “I will not step down for Atiku Abubakar and he has not said that anybody should step down for him,” he declared. He further clarified the SDP’s position, stating, “Neither me nor Atiku Abubakar can use the SDP. The party belongs to the Nigerian people, nobody can use it. What can happen is that those who believe in the ideology of the party can come to the party. We are not available to be used, if you want to join us, you can join us.”
