2027: El-Buba backs SDP presidential candidate, warns against one-party state

Renowned Nigerian cleric, Isa El-Buba, has endorsed the presidential aspiration of the Social Democratic Party candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, ahead of the 2027 general election, saying Nigeria needs a new direction in leadership.

El-Buba made the declaration on Wednesday while addressing delegates, party leaders and supporters at an SDP gathering in Bauchi State, where he urged Nigerians to unite in efforts to reposition the country.

The convener of the Initiative for a Better and Brighter Nigeria described the event as a significant moment for the party and congratulated members for what he called a peaceful and successful gathering.

Expressing concern over the country’s challenges, El-Buba said Nigeria’s vast human and natural resources had not translated into improved living conditions for many citizens.

“Nigeria is blessed with abundant resources, intelligent people and great potential, yet millions still suffer from insecurity, unemployment, poverty and injustice,” he said.

According to him, years of poor leadership have continued to deny Nigerians, particularly young people, access to opportunities, quality education and economic advancement.

He stressed that the current state of affairs requires collective action from citizens determined to change the country’s trajectory.

“Now is the time that we need to join forces to rewrite history. Nigeria cannot continue to go through pain, frustration and clueless leadership,” El-Buba stated.

The cleric also raised concerns about the country’s democratic future, warning against any development that could lead to the emergence of a one-party political system.

“Nigeria cannot go into a one-party state. Every system survives by justice and equity. Oppression is never the pathway to stability, and peace cannot thrive in the midst of injustice,” he declared.

Throwing his support behind Adebayo, El-Buba said members of his movement would mobilise support for the SDP leader ahead of the next presidential election.

“We believe Prince Adewole Adebayo represents the kind of leadership Nigeria needs at this critical time. That is why members of our movement will mobilise support for him ahead of the 2027 presidential election,” El-Buba said.

He argued that Nigerians seeking meaningful national transformation should support leaders committed to restoring public trust and rebuilding the country’s institutions.

The cleric also condemned vote-buying and political inducement, insisting that citizens had become more politically aware and would not mortgage their future for temporary gains.

“Nobody will buy the conscience of Nigeria with money or a bag of rice. Nigerians are tired, and it is time to recover the glory of our country,” he said.

El-Buba expressed confidence that the country could overcome its challenges through purposeful leadership and citizen participation.

He congratulated SDP members and supporters, describing the current political moment as the beginning of a renewed search for national rebirth and what he called the emergence of a “new Nigeria.”