SDP Crisis: My Husband Remains Loyal, Has No Plans to Defect — Mrs. Adebayo

By our Reporter

The wife of the former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the 2023 general elections, Mrs. Lilian Adebayo, has reaffirmed that her husband remains deeply committed to the SDP and has no intention of leaving the party.

Mrs. Adebayo made this known during an interview with journalists when she hosted the Forum of State Chairmen of the SDP in Abuja.

She highlighted her husband’s unwavering loyalty to the party, noting that he has been a dedicated member since his teenage years and has consistently resisted several invitations to join other political parties.

“My husband, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has always said it publicly — he joined the SDP when he was 19 years old, and he’s still with the same party. He’s had opportunities to move to other parties like the PDP and others, but he never did.
He has stayed committed to the SDP, and in the next election, by the grace of God, he’ll still be there. He’s not leaving the SDP for any other party whatsoever, and I’m very confident about that,” she said.

Mrs. Adebayo also commended the SDP’s ability to resolve internal issues peacefully, unlike other political parties that often suffer from prolonged internal wrangling.

“Every party has its share of challenges, but the SDP has managed its affairs very well. You don’t hear the kind of rancour and divisions that happen elsewhere. Whenever issues arise, they’re resolved quickly and amicably. I’m not worried because I know that peace will always prevail,” she stated.

Speaking on her husband’s prospects in the 2027 presidential election, Mrs. Adebayo expressed strong optimism, describing him as youthful, capable, and prepared to lead Nigeria effectively.

“I believe he has a great chance if Nigerians are honest with themselves. We’ve had presidents come and go without real change. Nigerians must decide whether to continue that way or choose someone young, capable, and ready to work,” she said.

“My husband is intelligent, energetic, and passionate about moving this country forward. If Nigerians truly desire progress, they know what to do.”

Mrs. Adebayo further called for greater inclusion of women in politics, emphasizing that female leaders bring compassion, empathy, and balance to governance.

“Women deserve more representation in politics. Men often don’t give us enough chances, but if they truly want national progress, they must allow women to lead. Women lead with empathy and balance — having more of them in governance would benefit the country,” she stated.

Addressing the notion that women fail to support one another in politics, Mrs. Adebayo disagreed, insisting that divisions are often instigated by men.

“I don’t believe women don’t support themselves. The problem is that men sometimes create divisions among us. If they leave us alone, women will stand united.

Personally, I always support women. I was so happy recently when I saw the only female chairman among others — I gave her a big hug. If she contests for any position, I’ll support her because she shares my vision,” Mrs. Adebayo concluded.