…Rules Out Merger with APC Ahead of 2027 Elections
Abeokuta, Nigeria – The 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has reaffirmed the party’s openness to new members but insisted that all entrants must follow due process.
Adebayo made this declaration over the weekend in Abeokuta during a meeting with the party’s executive members, led by Ogun State Chairman, Yinka Ola-Williams. Flanked by former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, he dismissed concerns about an alleged hijack of the party, emphasizing that only the SDP’s National Working Committee (NWC) has the authority to issue membership cards through state executives.
Addressing the issue of counterfeit membership registrations, Adebayo stated, “People counterfeit naira, dollars, even rice, and NAFDAC fights fake drugs. So, why should we be surprised that there are counterfeit party cards? Especially when they are being peddled by counterfeit politicians.”
He stressed that the SDP welcomes new members but would not tolerate shortcuts. “We are not fighting anyone; we are simply saying, ‘Come through the front door, not through the ceiling or the window.’ Everyone here joined legitimately, and anyone coming in must do the same,” he added.
Adebayo also put to rest speculations about a possible merger between the SDP and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), asserting that the party remains independent and committed to Nigerians’ welfare.
“Maybe APC has appendicitis; they should go to the hospital to treat it. SDP is a strong and independent party. We are older than most political parties in Nigeria, and our mission is clear—we are not in government with them,” he declared.
Referring to the upcoming 2027 general elections, Adebayo expressed confidence in the SDP’s prospects, claiming divine assurance of victory. “One thing God has told me is that an SDP president will be in the Villa in 2027. For the first time in a long time, we will have leaders who truly care about the people.”
He emphasized that the SDP’s focus is on tackling national challenges such as hunger, inflation, poverty, insecurity, and unemployment, rather than engaging in personal political battles.
Echoing Adebayo’s stance, Ogun State SDP Chairman, Yinka Ola-Williams, distanced the party from 30,000 membership cards and registers allegedly being circulated by a former PDP aspirant in the state.
“Our doors are open to anyone who wishes to join us, but due process must be followed, no matter how highly placed they are,” Ola-Williams stated.
He warned against any attempts to hijack the party structure, emphasizing that SDP is committed to providing a credible alternative that prioritizes quality governance, poverty alleviation, improved healthcare, and better education.
“Our goal is to build a party that truly serves Nigerians, not one that is manipulated for personal ambitions,” he added.
As preparations for the 2027 elections intensify, the SDP remains firm in its commitment to its core values, positioning itself as a viable force in Nigeria’s political landscape.
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