Adewole Adebayo, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) 2023 presidential candidate, has indicated openness to stepping aside for Labour Party’s Peter Obi as part of an emerging opposition coalition aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on Channels TV’s Politics Today, Adebayo revealed that “serious, quiet and honourable” consultations are underway among key opposition figures to form a united front against the current administration, which he sharply criticized for failing Nigerians.

“I like what Obi is doing. He is serious-minded, focused and committed,” Adebayo said. “These are not photo-op meetings; they are real, meaningful conversations aimed at political change.”

Asked directly about stepping down for Obi, he said, “That will come later. But from what I see, I like what he is doing.”

However, Adebayo ruled out any possibility of stepping down for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, emphasizing that neither he nor Atiku controls the SDP, which he described as belonging to the Nigerian people.

“Nobody can use [the SDP]. What can happen is that people who believe in the party’s ideology can come in and compete,” he explained.

He also dismissed reports suggesting Nasir el-Rufai represents the SDP in coalition talks, stating clearly, “el-Rufai is not representing the SDP in any coalition.”

Adebayo criticized the Tinubu administration’s performance, saying:

“Nigerians have given him two years to prove himself, and he is failing. If this continues, the people will send him packing.”

His remarks add fuel to speculation about a potent opposition alliance, potentially rallying behind Peter Obi, as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify.