By Omobolaji Adekunle
Presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the 2023 election, Adewole Adebayo, has cautioned Nigerians against boycotting the 2027 general elections, warning that electoral apathy could weaken democracy and entrench poor governance.
Speaking on a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese-Ijebu, Adebayo stressed the need for citizens to actively participate in the electoral process, describing voting as both a constitutional right and a civic duty.
His remarks come amid growing crises within opposition parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as well as controversies surrounding the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.
Adebayo warned that withdrawal from elections would only empower politicians with questionable records.
“When citizens abstain from voting, it is not the politicians who lose; it is the people themselves,” he said, urging Nigerians to reject calls for boycotts and instead use their votes to influence governance.
He acknowledged widespread public frustration over unfulfilled promises, insecurity, unemployment and corruption, but insisted that disengagement was not the solution.
“It is easy to be disillusioned when promises are broken. But refusing to vote only hands power back to the same individuals and systems that perpetuate failure,” he added.
The SDP chieftain maintained that meaningful change can only be achieved through active participation, noting that democracy thrives on citizens’ involvement in electing leaders and holding them accountable.
Adebayo also took a swipe at the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing it of failing to deliver on key campaign promises.
According to him, the current hardship faced by many Nigerians reflects a failure of leadership, particularly in the areas of security, job creation, economic growth and anti-corruption.
“The government is not delivering the goods to the Nigerian people. The vast majority of Nigerians don’t belong to any political party, and they are the ones bearing the brunt of poor governance,” he said.
however, reiterated that the solution lies in democratic engagement, urging Nigerians to use the ballot to demand accountability and effect change in 2027.