Ex-presidential candidate urges inclusive democracy

Dr Adewole Adebayo, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has called for policies that strengthen citizens’ participation in Nigeria’s democratic process.

Adebayo made the call at an Iftar (Breaking of fast) hosted in Abuja on Thursday by his wife, Princess Lillian Adebayo, with politicians and media practitioners reflecting on Ramadan’s values and their relevance to leadership.

He said Nigeria’s religious and cultural diversity remained a strength, urging leaders to embrace humility, justice and accountability as guiding principles for governance.

Adebayo urged political leaders to encourage greater voter participation, noting that democratic legitimacy depends largely on citizens’ active involvement in elections.

According to him, democracy ultimately belongs to the Nigerian people, and electoral processes must reflect their collective will through fairness, transparency and public confidence.

He also urged political actors to reduce tensions and promote peaceful, credible elections, stressing that leadership is a temporary responsibility entrusted to individuals for service.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Alhaji Yusuf Dantalle, also called for policy adjustments in Nigeria’s electoral framework to strengthen democratic participation.

Dantalle expressed concern that certain electoral provisions could limit citizens’ participation in democratic processes.

According to him, indirect party primaries and mandatory use of the National Identification Number in political processes could restrict participation.

Dantalle urged political actors to respect constitutional provisions and avoid a “win-at-all-costs” mentality in elections.

He also called on stakeholders to rely on the judiciary in resolving electoral disputes in line with due process.

The IPAC chairman urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to ensure strict compliance with electoral rules to meet public expectations.

He added that Nigeria’s democratic journey since 1999 should continue evolving toward greater accountability and public confidence.

Also speaking, the National Chairman of SDP, Prof. Sadiq Gombe, emphasised the importance of unity, religious tolerance and constructive political engagement.

Gombe said the gathering, attended by political leaders, civil society and media practitioners, reflected the spirit of unity and compassion associated with Ramadan.

He noted that dialogue and cooperation among political actors were essential for strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and national development.

The event ended with prayers for peace, stability and progress in Nigeria, with participants reaffirming commitment to democratic growth.