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Recently named as the Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) presidential candidate for 2027, Prince Adewole Adebayo discusses internal party conflicts, claims of efforts to undermine opposition parties, and his concept of “kitchen table politics” centered on issues like employment, food, healthcare, transportation, and education. In an interview with TITILOPE JOSEPH, he called student loans “a crime” and cautioned that flawed education policies are leading to a generation of unemployable young people. He also criticizes Nigeria’s present trajectory and presents the SDP as an ideological option for the upcoming general election.

Wishing you success in your selection as the SDP’s presidential candidate for the 2027 elections. How are you feeling about it?

It is enjoyable, yet difficult. It signifies a fresh chance for the nation and the independent citizens of Nigeria, who are entitled to effective leadership and a straightforward, practical strategy.

Prior to delving into the SDP’s platform, there is currently political unrest within the party. Your former national chairman is currently facing legal proceedings, and there are indications of a division between his followers and the rise of a new national chairman. What steps should the party take moving forward?

As a legal professional, I must be cautious in this situation. When a case is presented to the court, particularly one where an individual might face the loss of freedom, it would be improper for me to make any statements. All I can express is my respect for the rule of law and my hope that the process results in justice and a political solution that does not legitimise or justify criminal behavior. In the end, the legal system should be permitted to proceed as intended.

Apart from the court case itself, has this situation caused any tension within the SDP?

Not exactly. From what I gather, the situation involves the party attempting to utilize its disciplinary procedures to ensure its officials are held responsible. In the process, naturally, some individuals will be unhappy, while others might believe that certain procedural steps were not correctly adhered to. The key point is that everyone must respect the party’s constitution. If you’re starting a disciplinary action, you must follow proper procedures; and if you’re on the receiving end, you should also respect those procedures. If anyone is unhappy, there is an appeals system within the party. Organizations such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the police should remain neutral, carrying out their duties without taking sides.

Some people claim that this issue, reportedly worth approximately N35 million, should have been handled within the organization. Why did it go to court and result in an arrest?

I’m unsure why it couldn’t have been handled internally. However, as a lawyer, I can state that there are accusations related to various amounts—maybe you’re thinking of a specific number—and the individual concerned has entered a not guilty plea in court. The legal principle is straightforward: the presumption of innocence stands until guilt is established.

If the legal system is functioning correctly, the accused should be released on bail, appear for the trial, and political factors should not influence the process. We need to be cautious about establishing a culture where political interests dictate the administration of justice. If I overlook misconduct simply because an individual is politically advantageous, it establishes a harmful example. Similarly, if I judge someone before the court has completed its proceedings, I am also failing to uphold proper legal procedures.

The most effective way is to let the legal system handle the situation. Claims of financial wrongdoing are significant. Abuse of public or organizational funds is not something to be taken lightly. Historically, individuals faced consequences for minor amounts, yet now substantial sums are often overlooked. This mindset needs to shift. If the money is part of an organization and you had access due to your position, responsibility cannot be avoided.

Were you involved with the individuals who are said to have removed the gate from the party headquarters?

No, I didn’t. In my view, the blame falls on the police. You can’t offer police protection to people and then allow them to be involved in tearing down party gates.

Some reports suggest that law enforcement personnel were on-site during the event. What precisely occurred?

As far as I understand, the police were part of the operation, and the gates were removed under conditions that lead to significant concerns. Since I was not there in person, I need to be cautious with my statements. I only witnessed the event on television because I had already departed after my screening before it occurred. The party has officially contacted the Inspector General of Police, who promised that the issue would be looked into, and they have also communicated with the Commissioner of Police. As of the last information I received, the party is allowing the police a little more time to respond, and further actions could follow thereafter.

What do Nigerians need to know about the Social Democratic Party and its principles?

The SDP, without being overly scholarly, is a political group centered on addressing common social issues. It is a party for regular individuals; people who start each day considering matters like food, transportation, education, healthcare, employment, and basic living. This is what social democracy emphasizes.

In certain nations, it is referred to as a “kitchen table agenda” as it addresses the topics that families talk about at home on a daily basis. A social democrat will not rise and make decisions; for instance, eliminating subsidies without considering the effects on transportation, food, housing, employment, and savings. Our emphasis lies on advancing society.

Nigeria is a nation where numerous individuals find it difficult to cover essential requirements, and in certain regions, children are completely excluded from education. These are not theoretical challenges; they are actual problems that politics needs to address. Regrettably, governance frequently centers around elections and self-praise instead of achieving results. The SDP holds the view that the government’s purpose is to enhance people’s lives, not to provide justifications for its inability to do so.

You came forward as a candidate agreed upon by all, with no opposition. Were there any feelings of bitterness or dissatisfaction inside the party?

No, I don’t believe that. The party recognizes several important facts. Firstly, we are dealing with an established government, so we cannot tolerate internal disruptions or divisions. Secondly, the SDP is primarily based on ideology, meaning it’s not about individual victories or defeats; it’s about a common path forward.

You hail from the South-West. Some people believe it could be politically challenging to oppose President Tinubu if you come from the same area. How do you address this?

I don’t view things in that way. In SDP, we don’t simplify politics to regional considerations. A person facing hunger in the South-West remains hungry. Someone dealing with expensive fuel isn’t focused on the president’s origin. A student in a deteriorating education system, with un-paid instructors and inadequate resources, isn’t worried about regional identity. These are national issues, impacting all.

Other opposition parties have claimed that they have been infiltrated by supporters of the ruling party. Has the SDP faced efforts to undermine it?

Indeed, we are familiar with these tendencies. It is common in Nigerian politics for the ruling party to seek a weaker opposition or to take control of the political landscape completely. However, this is not a recent development; we have observed similar trends in past governments as well.

Have you managed to recognize people participating in these actions within your political group?

Such individuals will perpetually be present in the political arena. The key lies in strong leadership and political instruction inside the party—guiding people to recognize that transactional politics might bring immediate benefits, yet it is detrimental to the nation over time.

What about providing additional information regarding the individuals concerned?

I do not directly oversee the party. I am the presidential candidate and the public representative of the SDP, but the party has elected officials who handle its daily activities. My position is more focused on ideological and philosophical aspects.

We are witnessing changes in policies, including reduced entry criteria and modifications to teacher training routes. Some believe these adjustments enhance accessibility, whereas others claim they diminish educational quality. What is your opinion?

These are not changes for the better; they are distortions. When benchmarks are consistently reduced, it usually indicates that those in power lack a dedication to quality. A knowledgeable society raises inquiries and ensures leadership is responsible, which can make ineffective governance more difficult to maintain.

Another issue of worry is the increasing number of young Nigerians who are unemployed or unable to find work. How would you tackle this problem?

The answer is not complex. In the past, public education systems kept students actively involved all day long—both academically and through various activities outside of class. Schools were designed to foster discipline, abilities, and a sense of direction from a young age. Such an organized setting plays a vital role in the progress of a nation.

Would you keep the student loan policy if elected?

Student debt is a wrongdoing.

You are referring to student loans as a crime. Could you clarify that?

Indeed, I view it as a violation of both the constitution and the citizens.

However, numerous students claim that the loan program is enabling them to obtain education. Would you still eliminate it?

Why should students be required to take on debt for their education in the first place? Education must be free, mandatory, and of high standard. Several individuals currently involved in creating laws have personally benefited from free education. If we fail to adequately invest in education, it harms society. We risk producing graduates who are unable to make significant contributions, while joblessness and uncertainty rise. This outcome stems from insufficient investment in people, and it is a path we need to change.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).