Prince Adewole Adebayo, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, is emerging as a politician to watch ahead of the 2027 polls, as supporters urge him to make another bid for Nigeria’s highest office.
Adebayo, an Ondo State–born lawyer, businessman and public affairs commentator, contested the last election on the platform of the SDP, a party he has remained loyal to despite reported overtures from other political parties.
One of the supporters, Nalado Usman Yusuf, a politician of note and businessman based in Daura, Katsina State, described Adebayo’s experience and background as reasons he should present himself again to voters in 2027.
He said Adebayo’s continued allegiance to the SDP underscores his reputation as a principled politician rather than a “roving” aspirant in search of an electoral ticket.
He said he is one of those advocating his return to the ballot argue that his consistency and personal wealth suggest he is driven more by a desire to reform the country than by personal gain.
During the 2023 campaign, Adebayo ran under the slogan “Hope Again 2023,” which admirers now suggest could be reworked into a 2027 message focused on national “rescue,” particularly in response to Nigeria’s current economic and security challenges.
Adebayo’s mix of private-sector experience and public engagement, according to Yusuf, positions him well to address Nigeria’s complex governance issues.
“Security is another central concern. Backers argue that insecurity, particularly in northern Nigeria, has disrupted economic and social life and requires decisive action, including better deployment of security forces and greater use of modern technology such as surveillance and intelligence-gathering tools.
Education, agriculture and social welfare are also highlighted as areas needing urgent attention”, Yusuf stated.
On industrialisation, Yusuf called for the revival of moribund industries, encouragement of new manufacturing ventures and incentives for investors even as he stressed the need to revitalise the civil service, ensure timely payment of salaries and pensions, clear debts owed to contractors and promote transparency in governance.
In making the case for Adebayo’s return, Yusuf pointed to historical precedent, noting that former President Muhammadu Buhari contested the presidency multiple times before winning in 2015.
