The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has officially affirmed Prince Adewale Adebayo as its sole presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.
The decision was reached during the party’s 2026 National Convention held in Bauchi State, following a motion moved by the Chairman of State Chairmen and Lagos State Chairman, Femi Olaniyi Ferrari.
The motion received unanimous endorsement from delegates, signaling the party’s early consolidation of power and intent to challenge the ruling party in the upcoming polls.
The convention also served as a transition point for the party’s leadership, concluding with the election of a new National Working Committee (NWC) through a consensus-driven voice vote.
Professor Sadiq Umar Gombe emerged as the National Chairman, while Dr. Olu Agunloye was returned as the National Secretary.
Party leaders characterized the smooth transition and the emergence of officers like Bello Adu Osunmi (National General Secretary) and Araba Rufus Aiyenigba (National Publicity Secretary) as a testament to the SDP’s internal discipline and democratic maturity.
In a scathing address, Convention Chairman, Prof. Usman Bugaje, criticized the current political landscape, accusing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the judiciary of becoming tools for the ruling party.
Bugaje warned that attempts to stifle the opposition and block the political space would have historical consequences, comparing the current climate to past military regimes. He urged party members to remain resilient, asserting that the SDP is prepared to fight for the soul of Nigeria’s democracy despite a “hostile environment.”
Dr. Olu Agunloye, presenting the “State of the Party” address, highlighted the SDP’s successful efforts to reclaim its ideological identity from “self-serving politicians” and coalition forces.
He noted that over the past four years, the party has undergone essential internal cleansing and constitutional reviews to ensure that power remains with “genuine bonafide members.”
According to Agunloye, the SDP’s recent electoral successes—including two senatorial and eight state assembly seats—demonstrate its growing influence as Nigeria’s second-oldest surviving political institution.
Accepting his renewed mandate to lead the party until 2030, National Chairman, Professor Sadiq Umar Gombe, pledged a leadership defined by transparency and strict adherence to the rule of law.
He assured the gathered delegates from all 36 states and the FCT that the new executive team would operate with a deep sense of responsibility to reposition the party for 2027.
Gombe emphasized that the SDP will strictly follow the Electoral Act and the Nigerian Constitution as it prepares to offer a formidable alternative to the current administration.
