Adewole Adebayo, the Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has advised Nigerians to be cautious of politicians who switch parties without changing their political ideologies. He believes that only new politicians with fresh ideas can bring about the desired change in the country.

Adebayo made these comments in a recent interview, where he discussed various issues, including the upcoming 2027 presidential elections. He stated that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is guilty of violating the electoral law by engaging in early campaigns. Adebayo argued that as the governing party, the APC sets the tone for other parties, and its actions are a clear indication of its disregard for the law.

The SDP candidate also addressed the internal squabbles within the opposition parties, particularly the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He revealed that the ADC had approached the SDP to form an alliance but was rejected due to their inability to answer key questions about their ideology and vision for the country.

Adebayo emphasized that the SDP is a party of law and order, with functioning organs and a clear ideology. He dismissed rumors of factionalization within the party, stating that there are no factions, only differing tendencies among some members.

The former presidential candidate also commented on the recent statement by former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, who described the APC as a failed and visionless administration. Adebayo agreed with El-Rufai’s assessment, stating that the APC’s performance has been unsatisfactory and that a change in political tendencies is needed to bring about real change in the country.

Adebayo further emphasized the need for new politicians with fresh ideas to prioritize the interests of the electorate. He argued that recycling old politicians will not solve the country’s problems, as they are often driven by self-interest rather than a desire to serve the people.

In response to a statement by the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) Director-General, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who commended President Bola Tinubu for stabilizing the economy, Adebayo disagreed. He argued that while the economy may have been stabilized, it is still far from being corrected, and the government’s policies have not addressed the underlying issues facing the country.

Overall, Adebayo’s comments highlight the need for a new direction in Nigerian politics, one that prioritizes the interests of the people and is driven by fresh ideas and a commitment to good governance. As the country prepares for the 2027 presidential elections, his words serve as a reminder of the importance of careful consideration and scrutiny of political candidates and their ideologies.