Adebayo Warns: Nigeria's Crisis Lies in Governance, Not Leadership Duration

Leader of the Social Democratic Party and candidate for president, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has rejected the increasing discussion about plans for a single six-year term as an unnecessary focus away from Nigeria's more significant issues related to governance and democracy. He emphasized that election integrity, economic skills, and reforms in security must be central topics in the country's conversation before 2027.

Recently, during an interview, Adebayo stated that the nation's true issue is not how long leaders stay in power, but whether elections truly represent the desires of the electorate.

He stated that Nigeria needs to address what he referred to as the ongoing issue of election integrity and work towards restoring public trust in democratic systems.

"The problem isn't about how long leaders stay in power, either four or six years. The real question is whether the system functions properly and if citizens truly choose those who lead," he stated.

Referring to the method used for commemorating June 12, Adebayo advocated for what he described as the ultimate victory over election fraud, emphasizing that political rivalry should focus on concepts and capability instead of conflicts within parties or issues related to identity.

Commenting on issues related to internal changes inside the SDP and rumors about opposing factions within the group, Adebayo minimized worries and emphasized that the party continues to concentrate on offering a different national perspective.

He stated that his objective was to offer Nigerians what he referred to as a constitutionally grounded and policy-driven option centered on economic revival, security improvements, and social well-being.

Adebayo claimed that focus in past elections moved away from discussions about policies and instead centered more on identity issues, which he stated hindered voters from examining the effects of governmental plans.

Regarding his party's chances in the election, the SDP leader dismissed claims that the party continues to be politically insignificant, stating that rising public frustration has led to greater interest in different options.

He stated that the nation's present political environment promotes financial influence and undermines campaign efforts centered around specific issues, whereas parties that enforce tighter internal rules frequently encounter challenges.

He argued that his political group opposes buying votes, using ethnicity for mobilization, and relying on religious rhetoric, portraying moral politics as essential for long-term leadership.

His statement was: 'We believe that sound politics is the sole path to effective governance, and strong governance is the only long-term answer to Nigeria's challenges.'

Regarding the economy, Adebayo reiterated his critique of the elimination of fuel subsidies, contending that governmental policies overlooked broader economic impacts.

Although emphasizing that he wouldn't merely reinstate the previous subsidy system, he noted that the choice to eliminate it was made without tackling underlying problems within local refining capabilities and distribution networks.

He suggested a step-by-step plan focused on restoring Nigeria's oil refining facilities, enhancing public transportation networks, and decreasing reliance on gasoline for people with lower incomes.

He stated that fuel pricing carries wide-ranging effects since it influences production expenses, inflation, and family well-being at the same time.

In terms of security, Adebayo expressed some of his most severe critiques so far regarding the government's approach to instability, contending that Nigeria has adequate organizational capability to overcome armed factions provided that intelligence gathering and police work are effectively synchronized.

He attributed frequent abductions and instability to inadequate enforcement, low priority allocation, and what he referred to as a highly centralised security system.

He maintained that criminal organizations must not be engaged in negotiations and dismissed any chance of reaching an agreement with armed individuals.

"No terrorist or abductor has the power to surpass the Nigerian government. The question remains whether the administration decides to take action," he stated.

Adebayo also supported changes in police practices, urging more autonomy for law enforcement agencies and less involvement from politics.

He contended that cybersecurity experts ought to function according to intelligence assessments and constitutional duties instead of following political instructions.

In response to claims that opposition figures frequently downplay the challenges of running a government, Adebayo argued that discussing policies is an essential part of effective leadership.

Speech is not inexpensive," he stated. "Mindless conversation is free. Genuine policies demand thought, information, and an awareness of how governance functions.

As discussions about politics in 2027 start gaining traction, Adebayo stated that his campaign will remain centered on constitutional governance, economic reform, election fairness, and public security as the key issues facing Nigeria.

Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).

Lagos APC Candidates Condemn "Mischievous" Link Between Speaker Obasa and Protest

A group of candidates from the just-ended All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections have criticized what they called a "slanderous and diverting effort" to associate the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dr. Mudashiru Obasa, with the recent non-violent demonstrations held during the party's nomination process.

A forceful declaration, authored by notable members of the party and made public through the media on Wednesday, June 10, stated that the protest represented an unorganized display of frustration from candidates and their backers throughout Lagos State.

The declaration was endorsed by, among others, Hon. Seye Oladejo (Mushin), Hon. Kolawole Taiwo (Ajeromi-Ifelodun), Hon. Noheem Adams (Eti-Osa), Hon. Stephen Ogundipe (Oshodi), Hon. Apata Samuel (Somolu), Hon. David Doherty (Amuwo-Odofin), Hon. Ganiyu Egunjobi (Agege), and Hon. Ganiyu Ayuba (Alimosho).

Candidates emphasized that the demonstration stemmed from real concerns and was not supported by any external funding.

The statement asserted that implying thousands of dedicated APC members and advocates needed backing to express their grievances is offensive to their intellect and overlooks their valid issues.

As per the group, the demonstrators highlighted claims of interference, misrepresentation of outcomes, fraud, and neglect of party rules throughout the primary elections. They contended that these worries are not singular or baseless, but rather express the dissatisfaction of committed party members who dedicated their time, money, and political influence to the electoral system.

The signatories blamed unknown people for trying to blame Speaker Obasa in an effort to minimize the concerns and shift focus away from the importance of justice, healing, and solidarity inside the APC.

"Instead of tackling the core problems behind the demonstration, certain people have opted for an easy way out through blame-shifting. These ineffective efforts are evidently aimed at diverting public focus from the importance of justice and group solidarity," they stated.

As they look toward the upcoming general election, candidates called on party officials to address unresolved matters from the primary process. They highlighted that the APC's power comes from its capacity to welcome varied viewpoints, fix internal problems, and become more resilient through discussion and integrity.

"The worries of disappointed candidates and their backers warrant focus, rather than being ignored. Tackling these issues genuinely and promptly can enhance trust in the party's internal democracy and allow us to face the upcoming elections as a cohesive and powerful team," the statement ended.

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Lagos Students Shine with Sharp Thinking at JAYEF 2026 Debate Championship

OLORUNDARE ENIMOLA

On Wednesday, 10 June, secondary school pupils from various parts of Lagos State’s Education District I showcased outstanding debate abilities and analytical thinking during the 2026 Inter-Secondary Schools Debate Tournament held at the State Schools Complex in Alimosho.

Hosted and funded by the Joseph Adewole Youth Empowerment Foundation (JAYEF), in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, the gathering had the theme "Brain Task" and aimed at motivating pupils to enhance their cognitive abilities, leadership qualities, and sense of civic responsibility.

In the under-18 division, six educational institutions discussed the topic: "Social media causes more damage than benefit for high school pupils in Lagos State."

Schools that took part were Abesan Junior High School, State Junior High School Alimosho, Alimosho Junior Grammar School, State Comprehensive Junior College, Shasha Community Junior Grammar School, and Community Junior Grammar School, Akowonjo.

In conclusion, Shasha Community Junior Grammar School was declared the top victor with 73.5 marks, whereas Community Junior Grammar School, Akowonjo, came in second place with 69 points.

The senior division included six schools discussing the subject: "Substance misuse among pupils stems from poor parental guidance rather than negative peer influence."

The rival institutions included Community Senior Grammar School, Ipaja; Jakande Estate Community Senior College, Abesan; Alimosho Senior Grammar School; State Senior High School, Alimosho; State Senior College, Alimosho; and Millennium Senior Secondary School, Egbeda.

Alimosho Senior Grammar School took top position, with Millennium Senior Secondary School coming in second.

Awards, participation certificates, and honors were given to the successful institutions as acknowledgment for their exceptional achievements.

During the inauguration event, Ambassador Joseph Olaoluwa Adewole, Chairman and Founder of JAYEF, referred to the discussion as one of the organization's key programs aimed at fostering young people's growth.

As he mentioned, the program extends past rivalry by offering a space for interaction, strengthening, and cultivating leadership skills within youth.

"We have toured over 400 educational institutions within Lagos State during the past four and a half years. During these interactions, we've acquired important understanding about the issues affecting youth and effective ways to guide their thoughts toward achievement, triumph, and meaningful life." he stated.

Adewole encouraged the students taking part to see themselves as upcoming leaders, emphasizing that their thoughts and efforts could make a beneficial impact on society.

On behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, Assistant Director of Education, Dr. Omoniyi Bolaji, praised the organizers for fostering value-driven learning and encouraging analytical skills in pupils.

She urged pupils to adopt what he referred to as the three fundamental elements of achievement: integrity, skill, and perseverance.

Your personality can unlock opportunities that credentials alone cannot," she stated. "Skill adds worth, whereas persistence enables you to tackle obstacles and reach your objectives.

Giving the keynote speech entitled "My Journey: From Modest Origins to Meaningful Leadership," Dr. Emmanuel Audu Ohwavborua, Chairman and Managing Director of Emmppek Farms Limited, recounted his personal journey of ascending from a humble beginning to achieving recognition as an engineer, businessman, and leader.

Based on his personal encounters, he encouraged pupils to harness the potential of their thoughts, emphasizing that each significant accomplishment starts as a concept.

"The most valuable resource a young individual has is neither wealth nor social ties, but their intellect. Your mental attitude shapes your future," he stated.

Ohwavborua also cautioned against exam fraud, online crimes, and substance misuse, encouraging pupils to adopt honesty, self-control, and lifelong education.

During individual conversations, Adewole and Ohwavborua highlighted the importance of an educational framework that encourages analytical reasoning, creativity, and real-world issue resolution.

They showed hope that programs like the yearly speech contest would foster a group of accountable and problem-solving leaders who can significantly impact Nigeria's growth.

The speech contest is an integral component of continuous initiatives undertaken by JAYEF along with its collaborators aimed at enhancing young people's involvement and promoting scholarly achievement within high schools throughout Lagos State.

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