Democracy Under Threat? Adebayo Rejects Deregistration Move

Presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) for the 2027 general election, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has condemned the proposed deregistration of some political parties, describing the move as unconstitutional, undemocratic and a threat to Nigeria’s democratic growth.

In a post on his X handle, Adebayo stated that there is no constitutional, legal or moral basis for alternative political platforms to be suppressed through government action supported by judicial orders.
He said the development is particularly disturbing as it comes only days after the country celebrated Democracy Day with national honours, public ceremonies and renewed commitments to democratic ideals.
Although the SDP is not among the parties reportedly affected, Adebayo maintained that remaining silent in the face of such action would amount to abandoning the principles of democracy.
He called on Nigerians and all defenders of democratic governance to stand in solidarity with the affected parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Action Alliance (AA), Action People’s Party (APP), Accord Party (AP) and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
According to him, Nigeria’s broad social, cultural, religious, economic and ideological diversity makes it necessary to maintain a wide range of political platforms through which citizens can freely pursue their political ambitions.
Adebayo pledged support to the affected parties in their pursuit of justice and restoration through lawful means, stressing that democratic participation should not be restricted.
The SDP chieftain also advocated constitutional reforms that would remove the powers of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register or deregister political parties, limiting the commission’s responsibilities to conducting free, fair and credible elections.
He proposed a system in which political associations are free to sponsor candidates, subject to statutory deposits, while parties that fail to secure a minimum percentage of votes would forfeit such deposits.
Adebayo warned against policies capable of heightening political tensions in the country and urged leaders to concentrate on strengthening democratic institutions and promoting national development.
He further pledged personal support to the affected parties in their legal efforts to seek justice and restoration, offering to assist in challenging the decision through all lawful and constitutional channels.
Adebayo insisted that no democratic platform should be arbitrarily denied the opportunity to participate in Nigeria’s political process.