A leading figure of the Social Democratic Party, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has expressed strong doubts over the capacity of the Independent National Electoral Commission to deliver a credible general election in 2027, warning that Nigeria may have already missed the chance to guarantee free and fair polls.
Speaking in a statement, Adebayo said the country’s political discourse should move beyond opposition coalitions and focus instead on what he described as entrenched weaknesses in the electoral system, particularly concerns surrounding the independence of the electoral umpire.
He questioned the commission’s readiness and commitment to credible elections, arguing that public confidence in the institution has been undermined by the process through which its leadership emerges.
According to him, the appointment structure involving presidential nomination and subsequent approvals from relevant state institutions raises concerns about neutrality and independence.
Adebayo also faulted political actors who are now criticising the electoral body, noting that many of them had earlier endorsed the same leadership they now condemn.
He said such reactions suggest that some criticisms are driven by political interests rather than genuine commitment to reform.
The former presidential candidate traced Nigeria’s electoral setbacks to what he called missed opportunities for reform, citing recommendations made by the Justice Mohammed Uwais-led Electoral Reform Committee, which he said were not fully implemented by successive administrations.
He maintained that many political leaders benefited from flawed electoral outcomes in the past and therefore lacked the incentive to overhaul the system, adding that those once favoured by the process are now beginning to feel its consequences.
Adebayo further argued that responsibility for safeguarding credible elections now rests more with political parties, voters, the media and security agencies than with the electoral commission itself.
He also criticised the broader political climate, alleging that the current administration has shown little commitment to strengthening democratic institutions or improving transparency in the electoral process.
On the growing conversations around opposition alliances ahead of the 2027 elections, Adebayo said the SDP is concentrating on mobilising millions of Nigerians who traditionally stay away from the polls rather than pursuing elite political arrangements.
He claimed the party is witnessing steady grassroots expansion, with increasing membership across various parts of the country, and said its focus remains meaningful civic participation rather than inflated numerical strength.
While not ruling out future alliances, he stressed that any coalition must be based on shared principles, accountability and electoral integrity rather than temporary power-sharing interests.
Adebayo said the ultimate goal should not merely be replacing an incumbent government, but building a system capable of delivering genuine governance and accountability