The 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing it as a failure and a colossal disappointment. Speaking in Ilorin during an Iftar gathering with journalists and loyalists, he condemned the government’s handling of poverty, insecurity, food scarcity, and economic policies, stating that Nigerians had hoped for renewed leadership but were left disillusioned.
Adebayo accused the administration of neglecting the people while focusing on self-interest. He highlighted the worsening unemployment, lack of access to education, and poor infrastructure, arguing that governance should prioritize citizens’ welfare.
He also condemned the National Assembly for approving massive budgets with little to show for it and criticized the removal of elected officials in Rivers State, calling it unconstitutional.
On the Rivers State crisis, he urged political leaders to resolve the situation quickly, emphasizing that governance should be about service, not power struggles. Adebayo also criticized the media for prioritizing sensational stories over reporting on critical national issues.
Speaking on SDP’s role, he described the party as a true alternative to the elite-dominated political structure, referencing its historical significance with figures like MKO Abiola and Solomon Lar. He assured that SDP aims to return power to the people.
Regarding his choice of Ilorin for the Iftar, Adebayo acknowledged the city’s deep Islamic heritage and scholarly influence, highlighting its historical importance in Islamic knowledge and traditions.
