The 2023 SDP presidential candidate, Dr. Adewole Adebayo, has urged the adoption of policies designed to empower greater citizen participation and strengthen the foundations of Nigeria’s democratic system.

Speaking at a Ramadan Iftar hosted Thursday in Abuja by his wife, Princess Lillian Adebayo, former presidential candidate Prince Adewole Adebayo urged leaders to draw inspiration from the holy month’s teachings.

The event united politicians and media figures in discussions on Ramadan’s emphasis on reflection, compassion, and moral leadership.

Adebayo described Nigeria’s religious and cultural diversity as a enduring source of strength, encouraging those in power to govern with humility, fairness, and transparency.

He further called on political figures to boost voter engagement, warning that true democratic legitimacy hinges on widespread and active citizen involvement in the electoral process.

According to Adewole Adebayo, democracy ultimately belongs to the Nigerian people, and electoral processes must genuinely reflect their collective will through fairness, transparency, and restored public confidence.

He further appealed to political actors to de-escalate tensions and work toward peaceful, credible elections, emphasizing that leadership is a temporary trust bestowed on individuals solely for the purpose of selfless service to the nation.

Earlier, Alhaji Yusuf Dantalle, National Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), echoed similar concerns by calling for targeted reforms to Nigeria’s electoral framework to enhance broader democratic participation.

Dantalle highlighted worries that specific provisions could inadvertently restrict citizens’ involvement in the democratic process.

He specifically criticized indirect party primaries and the mandatory use of the National Identification Number (NIN) in political activities, arguing that these measures risk limiting wider participation and inclusivity.

Dantalle called on political actors to uphold constitutional provisions and reject the “win-at-all-costs” approach during elections.

He urged stakeholders to resolve electoral disputes through the judiciary, strictly following due process.

The IPAC chairman also pressed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enforce electoral rules rigorously to restore and meet public trust.

He emphasized that Nigeria’s democratic progress since 1999 must keep advancing toward greater accountability and stronger citizen confidence.

Speaking separately, SDP National Chairman Prof. Sadiq Gombe highlighted the need for unity, religious tolerance, and constructive political engagement.

Gombe described the diverse assembly of political figures, civil society actors, and journalists as a powerful reflection of Ramadan’s core values of unity and empathy.

He emphasized that sustained dialogue and cooperation among political players remain crucial for reinforcing Nigeria’s democratic institutions and advancing the nation’s overall development.

The event wrapped up with collective prayers for peace, stability, and prosperity across Nigeria, with all in attendance recommitting to the cause of democratic growth.