The Social Democratic Party (SDP) remains committed to its core values of justice, progress, and integrity, according to its 2023 presidential candidate, Adewole Adebayo.

Speaking on Sunday during an engagement with party members, Adebayo reaffirmed that the SDP is a strong and independent party, resistant to external influences. His statement follows the defection of former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai to the party and claims by Otunba Jimi Lawal, a factional PDP governorship candidate in Ogun State, who alleged he funded 30,000 SDP party card registrations.

“Anybody who wants to join the SDP is welcome, but you must learn our creed. We are not just for justice but for progress,” Adebayo declared, recalling the legacy of Moshood Abiola and the party’s commitment to fighting poverty and promoting a fair society.

On speculations about a possible merger ahead of the 2027 general elections, Adebayo dismissed any compromise on SDP’s principles.

“We cannot be on the side of the poor and on the side of big men at the same time,” he stated.

He also reaffirmed the party’s neutrality, distancing himself from the ruling government.

“I led the party in the last election. I’m still standing here. I’m not a minister under Tinubu or APC anywhere. We are standing on our own,” he said.

Meanwhile, Ogun State SDP Chairman Aina Williams rejected Lawal’s alleged attempt to influence the party, describing it as an effort to hijack its structure. Williams insisted that membership must follow due process and condemned any manipulative tactics.

With this stance, the SDP continues to position itself as an independent and principled opposition force ahead of the 2027 elections.