Adebayo INEC Election Claim resurfaces as the SDP candidate alleges unfair treatment in 2023 and urges neutrality ahead of 2027
Adewole Adebayo, presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has criticised the conduct of Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, claiming that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was not a neutral umpire during the contest and calling for greater impartiality ahead of the 2027 polls.
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Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics programme, Adebayo said his experience during the 2023 presidential election felt like a contest against the electoral body rather than a direct competition among political candidates.
The claim centred on his allegation that the previous election process was affected by irregularities and disputed figures, which he argued undermined public confidence in the outcome.
“In 2023, I contested against INEC. INEC was the opponent,” Adebayo said during the interview.
He compared the situation to allowing a person accused of stealing from a bank to determine the value of what was taken, arguing that the electoral process must ensure that results reflect voters’ choices.
Adebayo said he hoped the 2027 election would provide a different experience, with INEC officials and security agencies acting as independent institutions rather than being perceived as adversaries by candidates.
“The difference I would want now, hopefully I pray for the INEC chairman, Joash Amupitan, Electoral Commissioners and other staff, that this time around no candidate should see INEC as an enemy,” he said.
The SDP candidate added that political contests should be based on competition between candidates and parties rather than disputes with electoral authorities.
“If it is candidate versus candidate, then we are ready,” Adebayo stated.
His comments come as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections, with electoral transparency, voter confidence and the independence of institutions expected to remain major issues in public debate.
INEC has previously maintained that its processes are guided by constitutional responsibilities and electoral laws, while political parties and candidates have continued to raise concerns about aspects of election administration.
The debate over electoral credibility remains a recurring issue in Nigeria’s democracy, particularly following the 2023 presidential election, which generated legal challenges and differing views among political actors.
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As preparations for the next election cycle continue, stakeholders are expected to focus on improving trust in the electoral system, strengthening transparency and ensuring that voters’ choices are accurately reflected.
