The Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, called on Nigerians to demand meaningful reforms across all spheres of national life, beginning with the electoral system.
Adebayo cautioned that democracy is an ongoing process, not an event, and warned against complacency.
“If you refuse to reform voluntarily, circumstances will deform you. Democracy is one school you never graduate from,” he said.
He criticised the political class for treating governance as a personal entitlement, rather than a public trust.
“Ordinary citizens have long advocated for democratic ideals. We have democratised grievances — even incumbents now complain,” he observed.
Adebayo praised civil society organisations, labour unions, and social movements for their persistent advocacy despite discouragement, stressing that democracy must be meaningful, anchored on clean, fair, and predictable elections.
“The politics of our country must ensure that popularity with the people wins elections. If elected, leaders must govern according to citizens’ wishes or risk losing the next election,” he said.
Highlighting governance challenges, Adebayo noted that many politicians remain fixated on incumbency and self-preservation, which undermines democratic progress.
“This perpetuates the politics of incumbency, weakening democracy and stifling reform,” he said.
He, however, urged Nigerians to push for genuine electoral reform, insisting it is vital for producing capable and accountable leaders who can deliver tangible benefits to citizens.
