The 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive action against terrorists or step down from office.

Speaking on Tuesday at the National Electoral Reforms Summit 2025 in Abuja, Adebayo described the persistent killings and worsening insecurity across Nigeria as genocide, accusing the federal government of failing in its primary duty to protect citizens.

The summit, themed “Critical Constitutional Amendments for Credible Election in 2027,” was organised by the National Consultative Front, Labour and Civil Society Front, in partnership with the Movement for Credible Elections.

“Let’s put fire to the feet of our government to protect us,” Adebayo said. “If your people are losing their lives in dozens, you already failed the primary assignment of governance, and we should not waste our time debating the issue. The solution to that problem is that President Tinubu can use the bullet to kill the terrorists, or use the pen to resign.”

He accused government officials of diverting funds meant for national security, lamenting that both Christians and Muslims are being targeted. Adebayo disclosed that he had personally donated funds to rebuild destroyed churches and support victims’ families.

“We cannot deny that certain communities in the country are subjected to genocide,” he added. “I have donated money to rebuild up to 50 churches and comforted over a thousand victims.”

At the same event, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, represented by Muhammed Jamo Yusuf, called on stakeholders to tackle voter apathy, logistical challenges, and the excessive influence of money and godfathers in Nigerian politics.

He noted that despite strong youth participation in the last general election, issues such as poor result transmission and electoral irregularities eroded public trust. The governor commended the organisers for their efforts and urged for “honest hearts and strong determination” in reforming the electoral system ahead of 2027.

Also speaking, political analyst and university don, Prof. Okey Ikechukwu, emphasised the need for unity and practical solutions to address insecurity and governance challenges.

“It is crucial to focus on solutions and cooperation rather than being swayed by sensationalist narratives,” he said. “The need for tangible actions and investments in addressing insurgency and security threats cannot be overemphasised.”