According to a report by Vanguard on Sunday, May 24, 2026, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has restated his position on the need for strict adherence to due process, insisting that political loyalty should never influence legal outcomes or institutional decisions in Nigeria.
Adebayo made the remarks while addressing broader concerns about how politicians respond to ongoing allegations and court cases involving allies and opponents. He said democratic governance depends heavily on the credibility of institutions such as the police, anti-corruption agencies, and the judiciary, warning that any attempt to manipulate them for political advantage would weaken public confidence.
He further explained that leaders must resist the temptation to defend individuals simply because they are politically useful, noting that such behaviour often becomes a pattern that later defines governance once political power is attained.
He said, “If I take sides in favor of the accused because they are politically useful, it means that when I become president, I might influence law enforcement to protect friends.”
Adebayo added that once institutions begin to lose independence, accountability becomes selective, and governance turns into a system where allies are shielded while opponents are punished, regardless of facts or due process.
He stressed that his political philosophy is anchored on strengthening institutions rather than individuals, arguing that Nigeria’s long-term stability depends on a justice system that is seen to be fair, consistent, and free from political interference.
The SDP candidate maintained that his approach to governance would prioritise the rule of law, insisting that leaders must accept that justice should operate independently even when it affects political associates or party interests……See More
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