The Social Democratic Party, SDP, has clarified its reasons for withdrawing from coalition discussions aimed at challenging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
Prince Adewole Adebayo, the party’s presidential candidate from the 2023 election, stated that the talks fell apart due to what he termed credibility, ideological, and integrity issues concerning certain opposition figures.
In a conversation with journalists on Sunday, Adebayo mentioned that the SDP is not against coalition politics but will not partner with individuals whose past actions contradict the party’s principles.
He pointed out that merely opposing President Tinubu is insufficient justification for forming a political alliance.
Adebayo noted that several politicians who sought to join the coalition were turned away after internal evaluations, with some not even receiving interview opportunities.
He accused some opposition figures of trying to take advantage of public discontent with the current government without providing credible alternatives.
The SDP leader cautioned that replacing the existing government with individuals he labeled as “worse” would not serve the interests of Nigerians, emphasizing that the party will not endorse any coalition motivated by opportunism or personal gain.
Adebayo also condemned politicians facing corruption charges who are positioning themselves as alternatives to the ruling party, asserting that those with dubious backgrounds lack the moral authority to lead.
He insisted that any effective coalition must be founded on shared ideology, accountability, and a clear strategy to tackle Nigeria’s challenges.
According to him, politicians seeking alliances must first recognize their part in the country’s current issues before presenting themselves as agents of change.
Adebayo concluded that the SDP would prefer to stay out of power rather than engage in a coalition that undermines its principles or betrays public trust.