Adewole Adebayo, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has stated that the party welcomes new members but will ensure they undergo a process of “disinfection” to prevent them from bringing negative influences from their past affiliations.
Adebayo emphasized the SDP’s commitment to maintaining integrity and ethical leadership.
“If you want to join the SDP, you must allow us to apply disinfectant—not because we don’t respect you, but because you are coming from a highly infected zone,” he said, likening the process to the sanitization measures used during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He clarified that the party does not discriminate against people from other political backgrounds but wants to ensure that newcomers do not introduce corrupt practices.
“The party’s constitution is well-sanitized, and its guidelines are structured to ensure we serve the Nigerian people without the influence of negative practices,” Adebayo said.
He acknowledged the frustrations of many politicians who have left their previous parties due to internal conflicts and corruption, citing figures like Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, and Atiku Abubakar as examples.
“We sympathize with everyone coming in, and we recognize the trauma they may have experienced. However, our message is clear: whatever baggage you bring, leave it at the door. This party is about the Nigerian people, not about the politicians,” he stated.
New members will be required to thoroughly understand the SDP’s constitution and adhere to its ethical standards, ensuring the party remains committed to good governance.
