Tinubu in Power, Not in Government – SDP Presidential Candidate

• Prince Adewole Adebayo criticizes President Tinubu for failing to govern effectively, stating he focuses more on consolidating power than addressing challenges
• Adebayo urges more frequent and substantive media engagements from Tinubu, emphasizing the need for accountability and public understanding of policies

Prince Adewole Adebayo, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate in the last election, has criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, claiming that while the president holds power, he is not effectively governing.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Adebayo accused Tinubu of focusing more on consolidating authority rather than implementing policies that tackle Nigeria’s pressing challenges.

“I don’t agree that he is governing. He is only in power but not using it to govern,” Adebayo remarked. “In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and the Ministry of Interior, there are signs of attempts to govern. However, beyond these exceptions, there is no indication of serious governance.”

He acknowledged progress in certain areas but argued that isolated successes in the FCT and the Ministry of Interior do not represent a functional or effective government.

Adebayo also expressed dissatisfaction with Tinubu’s recent presidential media chat, stating that such engagements should occur more frequently and with greater substance. He criticized the content of Tinubu’s remarks, disagreeing with the president’s claim of satisfactory performance.

“The media chat should not be treated as a ceremonial event,” Adebayo said. “The president needs to regularly address the public, explain his policies, and demonstrate an understanding of their implications and objectives.”

He further called on the media to hold the president accountable, urging them to move beyond polite interactions and adopt a more rigorous approach during interviews.

The SDP candidate argued that Tinubu has failed to leverage capable talents within his party to build a strong and effective administration. He urged the president to engage more with the people to understand their concerns and adjust his governance strategy accordingly.

Despite his criticisms, Adebayo encouraged Nigerians to remain hopeful, emphasizing that hope transcends any government or leadership. “Even during the civil war, when food and security were scarce, people remained hopeful. Governance should not define hope—it is the fuel that keeps us moving as a nation,” he said.

Adebayo advised Nigerians not to view the current administration as their only option, reminding them that leadership is not limited to one individual or government. He called for a collective effort to envision a brighter future despite present challenges.