By Abimbola Ajayi
The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has called on media organisations to provide fair coverage of political parties and candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning against reporting that sidelines less prominent contenders.
Adebayo made the call at a dinner with journalists in Abuja on Sunday, saying voters needed access to diverse political views and policy proposals to make informed choices.
He urged media organisations to scrutinise issues such as insecurity, poverty, corruption and democratic governance while giving competing political parties opportunities to explain their positions.
He also cautioned against allowing commercial interests to determine which candidates receive media attention, arguing that coverage should not leave the impression that only a few contenders have viable ideas for governing the country.
Adebayo said the media and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had important responsibilities in promoting credible elections, adding that political parties should present clear policy proposals for public scrutiny.
Reflecting on the SDP’s association with the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, he said the experience reinforced the party’s commitment to democracy and the right of Nigerians to choose their leaders through credible elections.
The candidate said the SDP’s vision was based on the principle that the primary responsibility of government was to guarantee the security and welfare of citizens.
He added that the party had published its 2027 presidential manifesto, Farewell to Poverty and Insecurity, in English, Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba and other languages to broaden access to its policy proposals.
The SDP National Chairman, Prof. Sadiq Gombe, commended Adebayo for presenting the manifesto before the formal campaign season and translating it into several Nigerian languages.
“This is the first time we have a presidential candidate present his policy document long before the campaign season begins. He is also the first candidate to present his manifesto in all Nigerian languages. This includes Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, Kanuri, Fulfulde and so on,” Gombe said.
He urged Nigerians to examine the manifesto and contribute to discussions on the party’s proposals.
“Therefore, we are urging Nigerians to engage, critique and make invaluable contributions. On behalf of the SDP National Executive Committee, National Working Committee, 36 State Chairmen and the FCT, we are proud to present Prince Adewole Adebayo and his running mate, Dr Usman Bugaje, as the best and credible option to the APC in the 2027 election,” he said.
