The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has expressed strong disapproval of President Bola Tinubu's absence from a recent peace accord signing event, interpreting it as a lack of commitment to fostering peace ahead of the 2027 elections.

Adebayo, who spoke in an interview following the signing of the peace accord, criticized Tinubu for sending Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, in his place. He stated that this decision undermines the significance of the peace initiative and sends a negative signal regarding the President's dedication to a peaceful electoral process.

In his remarks, Adebayo emphasized the importance of conducting elections based on issues rather than personal attacks or identity politics. He outlined his commitment to avoiding hate speech, violence, and vote-buying, insisting that electoral justice is crucial for achieving peace in Nigeria. "When you do electoral justice, peace will come automatically," he asserted, highlighting the need for a truly independent Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct free and fair elections.

Adebayo further lamented the current state of the electoral system, calling for significant improvements to ensure that it serves the interests of the Nigerian people. He noted that the absence of President Tinubu at the peace accord event was particularly concerning, as it reflects a broader trend of disengagement from critical national issues. "A president cannot be so invisible like that," he remarked, questioning Tinubu's commitment to his presidential duties.

The SDP candidate also pointed to the need for law enforcement agencies to remain neutral during elections, urging that they should not be influenced by political interests. He expressed confidence that if he were to become president, he would prioritize the establishment of a peaceful electoral environment, stating, "The person who has the greatest possibility of establishing peace in the land is the President of the country."

Adebayo's comments come at a time when the political landscape is charged with tension as the nation approaches the 2027 elections. He highlighted the necessity for all political leaders to take the peace accord seriously, emphasizing that signing such agreements should not be seen as a mere formality but as a genuine commitment to the electoral process.

In closing, Adebayo reiterated that the President's absence from the peace accord was not just a personal failing but a broader indictment of his approach to governance. He called on Tinubu to clarify his position on the peace process and to demonstrate a stronger commitment to ensuring a peaceful electoral atmosphere in Nigeria. "If you say peace doesn’t matter, then you can be absent," he concluded, urging the President to recognize the significance of his role in promoting a stable and democratic Nigeria.