…blames poverty on failed leadership

Presidential hopeful and leader of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Adewole Adebayo, has said that poverty in Nigeria is a product of policy failures and poor governance rather than an unavoidable national reality.

Adebayo stated this in a statement, where he criticised the economic direction of the administration of President Bola Tinubu and expressed concern over the living conditions of ordinary Nigerians.

According to him, the economic reforms introduced over the past three years have not translated into improved welfare for citizens, as many households continue to grapple with rising costs of living, declining purchasing power and widespread hardship.

He argued that Nigeria possesses the resources and economic potential needed for prosperity, but has been held back by leadership that has failed to create opportunities and ensure that economic growth benefits the wider population.

Adebayo maintained that government performance should be judged not merely by economic statistics but by tangible improvements in the lives of citizens, including access to jobs, affordable food and safer communities.

The SDP leader said poverty could be tackled through effective governance, clear development priorities and policies deliberately designed to expand opportunities for Nigerians.

He further presented the SDP as an alternative platform committed to reducing poverty, creating employment, improving security and promoting a more equitable distribution of national resources.

“Poverty is not Nigeria’s destiny. It is the result of failed leadership and it can be defeated with the right government, the right priorities, and the right plan.

“The problem in Nigeria is not a lack of resources. It is a lack of opportunities and a failure by those in power to ensure that growth reaches the people,” Adebayo said.

Calling for greater civic participation, he urged Nigerians to become involved in the democratic process and support efforts aimed at national renewal.