Adebayo Critiques INEC's Credibility for 2027 Elections

Adewale Adebayo, the leader of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has expressed serious doubts regarding the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) ability to conduct credible elections in 2027. In a wide-ranging interview, Adebayo stated that Nigeria has already lost the opportunity for free and fair polls, attributing this to deeper structural flaws within the electoral system.

He emphasized that the real issue lies in INEC's independence and intent, asserting that the commission is fundamentally compromised due to the manner in which its chairman is appointed. Adebayo criticized the lack of public uproar over the appointment, which he believes reflects broader systemic failures.

He pointed out that past political leaders have ignored electoral reform recommendations, leading to a situation where the electoral body is seen as a victim of the flawed system. Adebayo also highlighted the SDP's strategy of mobilizing a large percentage of Nigerians who historically abstain from voting, claiming a rapid grassroots growth in membership.