SDP Not a Refuge for Disgruntled Politicians: Adebayo Defends Party’s Integrity Amid Defections
ABUJA — Adewole Adebayo, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has firmly stated that the party will not serve as a sanctuary for disgruntled politicians seeking to exploit its growing popularity. His remarks come amid a wave of high-profile defections to the SDP, including former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who recently joined the party after leaving the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Adebayo’s Position: “SDP Stands for Integrity”
Speaking during an interview on March 14, 2025, Adebayo emphasized that while the party welcomes new members, it remains committed to its core values of integrity, social justice, and people-centered governance.
“The SDP is not a dumping ground for self-serving politicians. We are building a movement based on principles, not opportunism,” Adebayo declared.
He further reassured party loyalists that his candidacy for the 2027 presidential election remains intact despite the influx of heavyweight politicians.
“Anyone who joins the SDP knows that I will run in 2027. This is not about individual ambitions but about offering Nigerians a credible alternative,” he added.
El-Rufai’s Defection Sparks Debate
Nasir El-Rufai’s defection to the SDP has fueled speculation about the party’s future direction. El-Rufai has been vocal about uniting opposition forces to challenge APC dominance in the 2027 elections.
“I urge all opposition members to join us in building a strong platform to rescue Nigeria,” El-Rufai said in a statement following his defection.
While his entry has been celebrated by some as a boost to the party’s profile, others have raised concerns about maintaining the SDP’s ideological purity.
SDP’s Growing Appeal
The SDP has emerged as Nigeria’s most anticipated third-force political platform, attracting disillusioned members from crisis-ridden major parties. Analysts attribute this surge in membership to:
- Discontent with APC and PDP: Many Nigerians are seeking alternatives to the two dominant parties, which they blame for economic and political instability.
- SDP’s Credibility: The party’s manifesto focuses on social justice, economic reform, and national unity, resonating with voters across ethnic and religious divides.
Challenges Ahead
Despite its growing appeal, political analysts warn that the SDP faces significant challenges:
- Infiltration Risks: The influx of defectors could dilute the party’s vision and compromise its integrity.
- Internal Unity: As new members join, maintaining cohesion among diverse interests will be critical.
- Electoral Strategy: The SDP must develop a clear roadmap to translate its popularity into electoral success in 2027.
Conclusion
As the Social Democratic Party navigates its newfound prominence, Adewole Adebayo’s strong stance against opportunism underscores its commitment to principled politics. With high-profile defections like Nasir El-Rufai’s bringing both opportunities and challenges, the party must strike a balance between inclusivity and safeguarding its core values.
