Presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has rejected any attempt to delay the 2027 general elections or suspend campaigns over Nigeria’s Ebola outbreak.

He accused the APC government of exploiting a public health concern for political advantage.

Speaking on Sunday at an SDP Presidential Campaign Council dinner in Abuja, Adebayo argued that Nigeria can protect public health without undermining democracy.

“One single instance of Ebola is not enough to talk about an epidemic,” he said.
The question of the electoral calendar has gained traction because of the government’s own position.

Health Minister Prof. Muhammad Pate has said there is no immediate plan to suspend political campaigns or other public gatherings.

But he added that restrictions could be considered if the outbreak worsens, based on scientific evidence and expert advice.

That conditional stance is what Adebayo is pushing against. He insisted that “public health precautions and democratic participation are not mutually exclusive” and that the electoral process should stay on course.

Adebayo pointed to Nigeria’s containment of the 2014 outbreak under former President Goodluck Jonathan as proof that the country can manage Ebola without disrupting national life.

He credited then Health Minister Onyebuchi Chukwu and the late Dr Stella Adadevoh, and alleged that the current response lacks the same transparency.
Nigerians, he said, deserve clear and timely information.

The SDP candidate said his campaign will comply with health guidelines while continuing nationwide mobilisation.

He urged Nigerians to stay vigilant, wash their hands regularly, and report suspected symptoms to health authorities instead of treating themselves at home.

He also called for cooperation among opposition parties to guard the integrity of the 2027 elections against manipulation and vote-buying.

Adebayo said poverty and insecurity remain the country’s biggest challenges and urged voters to “vote Tinubu out and the APC.”

He proposed petrol at N200 per litre through domestic refining and a public transport fund for CNG, electric and solar buses, with free rides for students.