The 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has urged Nigerians to exercise their constitutional right to vote, cautioning against apathy or calls for boycott that could undermine the nation’s democratic process.

Speaking during an appearance on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, IleseIjebu, Ogun State, yesterday, Adebayo stressed that active participation in elections remains central to ensuring accountability and fostering a government that reflects the people’s aspirations.

“When citizens abstain from voting, it is not the politicians who lose; it is the people themselves. SDP calls on every Nigerian to recognise the power they hold in their hands during elections, to reject calls for boycotts, and to ensure that their voices are part of the national conversation. True change is impossible without participation, and our party is dedicated to mobilising Nigerians to exercise this fundamental right,” he stated.

Against the hues and cries regarding debates about amendments in the Electoral Act and the crisis rock ing the African Democratic Congress (ADC), where the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had withdrawn recognition of the David Mark-led leadership, following a Court of Appeal ruling, leaving the party in disarray pending legal resolution, Adebayo insists that participation, not withdrawal remains the most effective tool for democratic change.

He warned that disengagement from the electoral process only strengthens entrenched political interests and allows politicians with questionable records to dominate the national space.

According to him, democracy requires the active involvement of citizens, from voting to holding leaders accountable. Adebayo emphasised that voting is both a right and a civic responsibility, urging Nigerians to use the ballot as a tool for reforming governance and reshaping leadership.

He, nevertheless, strongly criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu, stating that the government has failed to deliver on its promises in key areas such as security, employment, economic growth, and anti-corruption. He argued that the hardship faced by Nigerians reflects a leadership failure that must be addressed through democratic change.