Former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Adewole Adebayo, has categorically stated that he will not step down for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Adebayo made this declaration during an interview on Channels TV on Wednesday night, addressing speculation that Atiku might use the SDP as a platform for his 2027 presidential ambitions.

"I will not step down for Atiku Abubakar and he has not said that anybody should step down for him," Adebayo firmly stated. "Neither me nor Atiku Abubakar can use the SDP. The party belongs to the Nigerian people, nobody can use it."

The former presidential candidate clarified that while the party remains open to new members who believe in its ideology, it is not available for political exploitation. "What can happen is that those who believe in the ideology of the party can come to the party. We are not available to be used, if you want to join us, you can join us," he explained.

Adebayo's comments come amid reports that opposition figures are working to form a coalition aimed at unseating President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming election. Key figures reportedly spearheading this movement include Atiku Abubakar, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai.

The SDP has recently distanced itself from El-Rufai, stating that he does not represent the party in coalition talks. Meanwhile, the Benue NASS APC Caucus has reportedly adopted President Tinubu as their sole candidate for the 2027 elections.

As political realignments continue ahead of the 2027 elections, Adebayo's stance suggests the SDP intends to maintain its independence and follow due process for any presidential aspirants seeking the party's ticket.