Prince Adewole Adebayo, the 2023 Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate, has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s performance, praising his political acumen but condemning his governance record. In an interview with Vanguard, Adebayo stated that while Tinubu excels in managing the political class earning an "A1" grade he fails woefully in governance, deserving an "F9."
Adebayo highlighted Tinubu’s skill in motivating, recruiting, and managing politicians, noting that he understands what drives the political elite and how to maintain their loyalty. However, he argued that this political mastery has not translated into effective leadership or substantive legacies for Nigerians. “If he cannot save lives in Benue, Plateau, and many parts of the country, then he has failed,” Adebayo said, pointing to ongoing security challenges as evidence of governance failure.
He also accused Tinubu of assuming that controlling political institutions and actors would eliminate opposition, warning that the real opposition would come from the electorate. Adebayo cautioned against career politicians who only raise opposition voices when they lose appointments, implying their dissent is self-serving rather than principled.
The SDP leader urged the president to prioritize the welfare of Nigerians over political maneuvering, emphasizing the need for policies that address basic services, economic stability, and security. He criticized Tinubu’s economic management as “economisation of truth,” suggesting it lacks genuine effectiveness.
Adebayo’s critique reflects broader concerns about the gap between political power and governance outcomes in Nigeria under Tinubu’s administration.
