As political alignments begin to take shape ahead of the 2027 general elections, the presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the 2023 elections, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has declared his intent to recontest for the nation’s highest office. He boldly stated that his mission is to ensure that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu becomes the last in a line of what he described as “bad presidents” that have failed to deliver true progress to the Nigerian people.

Adebayo, a lawyer, businessman, and social commentator, made this known during a live television appearance on Thursday in Abuja, where he shared insights into his political vision and offered critical assessments of the current administration’s performance.

“Tinubu Will Be the Last of a Failing Tradition”

In his typically outspoken manner, Adebayo did not mince words in criticizing the leadership style of President Tinubu and past administrations. According to him, Nigerians have endured a long chain of underperforming leaders, and it is time for the country to break the cycle.

“My mission for 2027 is clear,” Adebayo said. “President Tinubu must be the last of the bad presidents in this country. We cannot continue recycling poor leadership and expect progress. We must disrupt the system that rewards failure and punishes integrity.”

He argued that the current administration has failed to offer relief to Nigerians, particularly in the face of worsening economic conditions, rising inflation, and insecurity. Adebayo said the country needs a radical shift from transactional politics to governance rooted in competence, patriotism, and public service.

Criticism of Current Economic Policies

Prince Adebayo took a swipe at the Tinubu administration’s economic policies, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy and floating of the naira, which he described as “hastily implemented with no safety net for the masses.” He noted that while some of the policies may be theoretically sound, their implementation has left Nigerians grappling with unprecedented hardship.

“The problem is not always policy design—it is the fact that these leaders govern with impunity and without a sense of responsibility to the people. Our economy has become a playground for experiments that never consider the human cost,” he said.

He challenged President Tinubu to own up to the failures of his government and stop blaming past administrations for the country’s woes. “This administration must understand that leadership is about responsibility, not excuses. Nigerians voted for you to solve problems, not to narrate them,” he added.

Calls for a New Leadership Model

Adebayo emphasized the urgent need for a new style of leadership—one that is rooted in service, transparency, and a genuine desire to uplift the people. He criticized what he described as the “elite consensus” that keeps recycling the same group of politicians regardless of their poor track records.

“We need a generational and philosophical shift in leadership. Leadership is not about age or tribe, it is about values and the courage to lead with integrity,” he said.

He further called on the Nigerian electorate to be more discerning and reject politicians who use money, ethnicity, or fear to manipulate votes. “We must stop being victims of propaganda and inducement. The real revolution Nigeria needs is in the minds of the people,” Adebayo emphasized.

Plans for 2027

On his 2027 presidential ambition, Adebayo confirmed that he is already consulting widely and mobilizing support across the country. He noted that his party, the Social Democratic Party (SDP), is being restructured to become a viable platform capable of contesting power at the national level.

“Our resolve is strong. We will present a clear, achievable vision to Nigerians. We will not engage in mudslinging or propaganda. We will simply tell the people the truth and show them the way forward,” he said.

Adebayo hinted at potential alliances with like-minded political figures and civil society groups, stating that unity among credible opposition voices will be essential to wresting power from the APC in 2027.

He maintained that Nigeria is not lacking in solutions but in honest leaders willing to implement them. “There is no reason for Nigeria to be poor or insecure. We are blessed beyond measure. What we lack is sincerity in leadership,” he said.

Public Response and Growing Momentum

Since his appearance, Adebayo’s comments have been widely shared on social media, with many Nigerians expressing support for his bold vision. Young Nigerians in particular have commended his straightforward approach and emphasis on values-driven leadership.

“I may not agree with everything he says, but Adebayo speaks with clarity and courage. He’s the kind of leader who makes you believe change is possible,” a user posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Others urged him to remain consistent and to begin grassroots mobilization early, noting that the 2027 election could present a rare opportunity for the emergence of a third-force candidate with integrity and vision.

Conclusion

Prince Adewole Adebayo’s declaration that President Bola Tinubu will be the last of Nigeria’s “bad presidents” marks a bold start to what is shaping up to be a high-stakes political contest in 2027. With dissatisfaction growing among citizens and opposition voices gaining momentum, the stage is gradually being set for a battle over Nigeria’s future.

Whether Adebayo’s message will resonate with the majority remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—Nigerians are hungry for real change, and the political atmosphere is ripe for disruption.