SDP’s Adewole Adebayo criticises President Tinubu over the Electoral Act, claiming he disregards asking for power from the people
Adewole Adebayo, former Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate, has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s approach to politics, describing it as dismissive of popular participation.
Also read: SDP Chieftain Accuses Tinubu of “Snatching Power”
Speaking in an interview on Trust TV on Thursday, Adebayo reacted to Tinubu’s signing of the Electoral Act 2022 (Repeal and Re-Enactment) Bill 2026, which followed the National Assembly’s approval of electronic transmission of election results with manual collation retained as a backup.
“Tinubu believes that in their own school of politics you don’t go to the people to ask for power. You are wasting your time,” Adebayo said.
He added that the President believes power is grabbed and run with, rather than sought through popular engagement.
Adebayo accused the current political system of lacking genuine opposition, saying politicians merely move “from one room to the other in the same house.”
He argued that the signing of the Electoral Act, while legally significant, creates a “shadow of doubt” among voters, requiring opposition parties to redouble efforts to boost public confidence.
“This is legislative snatching of power. We are still going to defeat Tinubu in this country and defeat the ruling All Progressives Congress handsomely,” Adebayo said, emphasising the need for active voter engagement despite perceived obstacles.
Also read: Experts Praise Tinubu’s 2026–2030 National Development Plan
The remarks come amid ongoing debates over electoral reforms and the transparency of Nigeria’s upcoming 2027 elections.
