Former Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has called for concerted efforts to end episodic governance in Nigeria, warning that the nation cannot afford to backtrack in its journey of nationhood.

Adebayo made the remarks on Tuesday during a visit to the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) headquarters in Abuja, where he was received by the forum’s Board of Trustees chairman, Bashir Dalhatu.

Speaking at the visit, Adebayo emphasized the critical role of the ACF and similar organizations, such as the Northern Elders Forum, in promoting national stability and integration, particularly in light of faltering political institutions.

“Northern Nigeria is the crown jewel of the Nigerian state. The journey to nationhood started in 1914, and there’s no excuse for pretending there’s a U-turn anywhere. Nigeria is like a train; it has no reverse gear,” he said.

He lamented the prevalence of “episodic governance,” where successive administrations abandon development plans, and stressed the need for leadership that prioritizes unity, accountability, and service delivery.

“Even something as fundamental as Nigeria’s sovereignty is now up for debate. We don’t have a common basis for unity. The killings going on in the North are tragic, yet they fail to unite us in condemnation,” Adebayo added.

He also stressed that national unity must transcend religion, ethnicity, and region, insisting that reforms should ensure Nigeria works for all citizens.

“Reforms are possible, but no reform can render me a non-Nigerian. There is only one Nigeria, and the North is a critical component,” he said.

Adebayo highlighted the importance of preparing a new generation of patriotic leaders, promising that SDP’s politics “will leave no one behind” while prioritizing accountability and effective service delivery.

In response, ACF Chairman Bashir Dalhatu lauded Adebayo’s patriotism and vision for national unity, describing him as one of the few politicians who think beyond regional lines.

“Nigeria needs people who think in a united manner. The ACF was established to protect the interests of the North within the context of a united Nigeria. We are first and foremost Nigerians before being Northerners,” Dalhatu said.